Julie McKnight, ex-wife of Brian McKnight, expressed her heartbreak upon hearing that he didn’t say “I love you” to their son Nico before he passed away.
“Such words should flow easily and frequently,” she said in a statement. “During such a painful time for Nico, it was crucial to express love.”
Having been married to Brian from 1990 to 2003, Julie shared how devastating it is to hear a child yearn for their father’s affection. “There’s nothing worse than their need for something so fundamental,” she added.
She continued, “Children shouldn’t have to long for such essential feelings. It was deeply painful for me to hear those words missed, especially as a mother.”
Julie reflected on the importance of love, particularly in vulnerable moments, saying, “Nico should have felt treasured and unconditionally loved.”
She insisted that a child deserves more acknowledgment of love, emphasizing that such basic needs shouldn’t be neglected.
Julie concluded with a heartfelt plea for parents to recognize the power of their words, the significance of their support, and the healing that love can bring.
She and Brian shared two children, Brian Jr. and Nico, the latter of whom passed away at 32 in May. Recently, Brian Jr. mentioned in an interview that his father’s refusal to tell Nico he loved him was one of his most painful memories.
Nico had announced his cancer diagnosis in January 2024 and sadly passed away that May. Reports suggest Brian did not interact with Nico before or after his death, contrary to claims that he offered support, which Julie dismissed as inaccurate.
Brian’s relationship with his children has been strained, and he has publicly referred to them as “products of sin.” He has also mentioned his role as a father to his children with current wife Leilani Mendoza.
As the family grappled with their loss, Brian has been characterized as absent, not reaching out to his sons during the difficult times. Furthermore, claims emerged that a memorial service was held privately by Leilani and her children on Maui.
