American singer Brian McKnight is facing backlash for controversial comments about his biological children, whom he referred to as ‘evil’.
During an Instagram Q&A, McKnight publicly disowned his children Brian Jr., Niko, Briana, and Clyde.
He posted about his stepdaughter Julia’s graduation, calling her his ‘only’ daughter, effectively disowning Briana, his biological daughter from a previous relationship.
This statement drew criticism from followers, with McKnight doubling down in response.
In an Instagram video, McKnight praised a supporter named Carl Jackson and denounced his biological family, emphasizing the need to remove ‘evil and negativity’ from his life, even if it’s related to him.
These remarks were met with disapproval from fans, some accusing him of straying from religious principles and exhibiting ‘toxic positivity’.
McKnight, known for his positivity platform and upbringing in the Seventh-day Adventist faith, defended his comments by stating that God’s teachings don’t apply to children born out of ‘sin’.
The backlash intensified, with McKnight’s ex-wife Julie McKnight, who shares two children with him, indirectly commenting on the situation without naming names.
Julie hinted at emotional and mental abuse in past relationships, suggesting that some individuals seek attention and create turmoil when no longer in the spotlight.
McKnight’s relationship history includes fathering children outside of his marriage with Julie, all of whom he has distanced himself from.
Despite the controversy, McKnight has achieved success in music, with numerous Grammy nominations and hit songs like ‘Love Is’ and ‘Back at One’.
Since the criticism, McKnight has limited comments on Instagram, and negative responses to his posts have reportedly disappeared.
