Gladys Knight files lawsuit against son

ATLANTA — Atlanta music icon Gladys Knight is suing her son, demanding that he stop using her name.

According to the lawsuit, Knight no longer wants her name and image on any signs or promotions for the chicken and waffles restaurants.

The lawsuit claims Knight licensed her name and memorabilia to her son, Shanga Hankerson, in 1999 for use in connection with the Gladys Knight’s Chicken and Waffles restaurants.

Court documents say that in 2009, Knight considered ending the agreement altogether due to what she perceived as mismanagement, but instead entered a verbal agreement, which was contingent on Hankerson protecting Knight’s name and reputation.

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The lawsuit mentions both a state investigation and struggling business operations.

Authorities raided metro Atlanta Gladys Knight’s Chicken and Waffles locations in June and arrested Hankerson on charges of theft and racketeering.

Hankerson is accused of stealing more than $650,000 in sales and withholding taxes. With penalties and interest, he would owe more than $1 million. %

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In February, the Peachtree Street location scored a 56 on an inspection. The location passed with a 90 on its re-inspection.

The restaurants are under new management following Hankerson’s arrest.

Cox Media Group