Nationwide — Singer Brian McKnight is facing renewed criticism after interviewing the stepfather of his estranged son’s children for his Fatherhood Fridays podcast. Their discussion about fatherhood and family relationships led many viewers to believe the singer was addressing his ongoing conflict with his son, Brian McKnight Jr.
During the interview, McKnight spoke with Nathaniel Glidewell, who is married to the mother of his grandchildren. The conversation focused on Glidewell’s experience as a stepfather and the role he plays in raising the children.
According to Complex, throughout the interview, McKnight asked about the children’s relationship with their biological father and whether his involvement could change their lives. Glidewell said the children have wanted a closer connection but have dealt with inconsistent involvement.
McKnight also asked how often the children’s biological father has been present in their lives over the past several years. Glidewell said visits have reportedly happened only once or twice a year, mostly during birthdays and holidays like Christmas.
The singer then asked whether the children had relationships with their father’s extended family, including grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins. Glidewell said those connections have also been limited.
Although McKnight did not mention his son by name during the interview, many viewers linked the conversation to past accusations from Brian McKnight Jr. about their strained relationship. Some saw the interview as McKnight’s response to claims that he was absent from his grandchildren’s lives.
McKnight later replied to a supporter who defended him in the comments and called him “unapologetic.” He said people believed his son’s accusations without hearing his side of the story.
The interview has become the latest public moment in the long-running family dispute involving McKnight and some of his older children. The singer has continued to face criticism over those relationships while publicly sharing his life with his wife, Leilani, and their children.