Photo by Helen Boast Photography/Redferns and Photo by Vince Bucci/WireImage
Julie McKnight and Brian McKnight Jr. are keeping Nikolas “Niko” McKnight’s memory close as they mark one year since his passing. As The Shade Room previously reported, Niko passed away on May 30, 2025 after a two-year battle with cancer.
Recently, Brian Jr. took to Instagram to honor Niko on the one-year anniversary of his passing. He posted sweet throwback flicks of them together from childhood through their teenage years. In a lengthy caption, Brian Jr. shared that not a day goes by without him thinking about his baby brother.
“Cant believe its been a year […] Or that my eyes still water after a billion tears. At no time are you not thought of / Your smile never disappears / Sometimes I despise the angels who get to see you so clear.” He added, “Im forever in half sincerely. I love you my baby brother.”
Along with his carousel post, Brian Jr. also shared two photos of himself and Niko posing with their mother Julie and added the caption,“Three the hard way. Forever. ”
Julie McKnight also showed love to Niko on the anniversary of his passing. Fans who keep up with her on Instagram know she often shares throwback memories of him. This time, she posted a sweet clip of him out at a restaurant vibing to music with the hashtag #NikoForever. She also dropped an adorable baby photo of him.
After The Shade Room reshared Brian Jr.’s tribute to his brother, the Roomies also showed love in the comment section. Plenty of fans said they couldn’t believe it’s already been a year since his passing, while others continued sending Julie and Brian Jr. condolences.
Instagram user @rere_belike wrote, “Losing a sibling is rough. I hope Niko is resting peacefully ”
Instagram user @richlifeshawtydred wrote, “I hate to see kids passed away. That is so sad. My prayers and heart goes out to the McKnight family.”
While Instagram user @althea_lola wrote, “Its Been A Year Already?! Time Is Moving Fast.”
Then Instagram user @richlifeshawtydred wrote, “Rest in peace, Young King you will be truly missed”
Another Instagram user @t.saintbridges wrote, “@brianmcknightjr sending love and light to you and your beautiful mom beautiful tribute to your baby brother ”
Instagram user @loosmile_ wrote, “”
While another Instagram user @godblessedmewith_3 wrote, “Continue to rest in eternal peace Niko ”
Finally, Instagram user @kimmy_lmc wrote, “May his memory be a blessing ”
