Who is Kniko Howard? Meet Draya Michele’s Private Son

Not every celebrity kid wants to be in the spotlight. Some like to live a quiet, simple life — just like most regular people. One of those quiet kids is Kniko Howard, the son of well-known TV star and businesswoman Draya Michele.

While Draya often shares her life online, Kniko stays out of the public eye. He doesn’t post on social media, doesn’t do interviews, and rarely appears at events. But fans are still curious about him. Who is he? What’s his life like? What makes him different?

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at Kniko Howard — from his early childhood to his family, school life, and why he chooses to stay so private. Let’s get started!

Kniko Howard Quick Bio

Who is Kniko Howard?

Kniko Howard was born in the United States in 2002. As of 2025, he is 23 years old. His mom is Draya Michele, a former reality TV star, model, and fashion brand owner.

Even though his mother is famous, Kniko has always lived a quiet life. He doesn’t try to be in the spotlight like other celebrity children. In fact, most people only know about him because of his connection to Draya.

Kniko is a good example of someone who chooses to live simply, even when they have a famous parent. And that’s exactly why people are so curious about him.

Draya Michele Had Him at 17

When Draya Michele was just 17 years old, she became a mom for the first time. She gave birth to Kniko when she was still very young and trying to figure out her life.

Being a teen mom is never easy. Draya had to work extra hard to support her baby. She didn’t come from a rich family. She had to take on different jobs, including modeling and acting, just to pay the bills and take care of Kniko.

In interviews, Draya has said that her own mom helped her a lot during that time. With her mom’s support and her own determination, Draya managed to raise Kniko the best way she could.

The Truth About Kniko Howard’s Dad

For many years, people had no idea who Kniko Howard’s dad was. Some fans even guessed that a famous athlete or celebrity could be his father. There were even rumors that NBA star Gilbert Arenas was his dad — but that wasn’t true.

Finally, in 2016, Draya cleared up the rumors. She said that Kniko’s father is a man named Kniko Howard Sr., who works as a barber in Pennsylvania. She also shared something very personal — Kniko Sr. was in jail for 10 years, starting when she was seven months pregnant.

Draya said she never received any child support from Kniko’s father and raised her son all by herself. She also explained that she never lied about who the father was, and never claimed any celebrity as her son’s dad.

Kniko’s Childhood Was Quiet

Even though his mom became more and more famous, Kniko Howard’s childhood was kept quiet. He didn’t grow up in the spotlight. Draya made sure her son had a normal life, away from cameras and gossip.

He was mostly raised in Pennsylvania, and then later in Los Angeles, where Draya built her career. Draya’s own mom helped a lot during those early years. Together, they gave Kniko a safe and loving home.

Unlike many kids of famous parents, Kniko never tried to be on TV or in the media. He didn’t appear in reality shows. He didn’t do interviews. And he never showed interest in becoming famous.

Kniko Howard’s School and College Life

Draya always wanted the best education for her son. She worked hard so he could go to good private schools while growing up. She once said that Kniko’s future mattered more to her than anything else.

In 2021, Draya proudly shared that Kniko started college at Georgia State University in Atlanta. She posted an emotional message on Instagram saying:

“Well. It’s official. I’m a college mom. I’m so proud of you, son!!!!!! I mean, I knew you’d make it here.”

It was a big moment for her and for Kniko. Fans were surprised to see how grown-up he looked — taller than Draya, quiet, and focused on his studies.

Kniko and His Mom Are Very Close

Draya Michele and Kniko have always had a strong and loving bond. Even though she was a young mom, she made sure Kniko felt supported and cared for.

She once shared a funny moment about how Kniko drives himself to school but still asks her for gas money. It showed that even though he’s grown up, he’s still her son — and she’s still his mom.

Draya often says that Kniko is her biggest motivation. Everything she built — her career, her fashion brands, her success — was all for him. She wanted to give him a better life, and by all signs, she did.

Meet Kniko Howard’s Siblings

Kniko Howard is not an only child. He has two younger siblings from his mother’s later relationships.

His little brother, Jru Scandrick, was born in 2016. Jru’s father is Orlando Scandrick, a former NFL football player. Even though Jru has a different dad, Kniko has always been close to him. When Jru was born, Draya said that Kniko was excited to be a big brother and wanted to teach him how to play soccer.

In May 2024, Kniko became a big brother again. Draya gave birth to a baby girl with NBA player Jalen Green. The baby was born on Mother’s Day, which made it a very special moment for the whole family.

Draya shares that all her children are very loved and supported. Even though they have different fathers, she makes sure they feel like one strong, united family.

Why Kniko Howard Stays Out of the Spotlight

Most kids of celebrities are all over social media, red carpets, or even reality shows. But Kniko Howard is not like that.

He chooses to stay private. He doesn’t post publicly on Instagram. He doesn’t do interviews or appear at many events. He wants a peaceful life without cameras or gossip.

Draya Michele respects this. She has said that she doesn’t post pictures of Kniko often because he asked her not to. He wants his privacy, and she fully supports that.

This is one reason why many fans admire Kniko. In a world full of attention and fame, he chooses to stay grounded and quiet.

Kniko’s Rare Public Moments

Even though Kniko Howard stays away from the media, he has been seen in public a few times — mostly with his mom.

In 2017, Kniko and Draya went to the premiere of the animated movie Despicable Me 3. The next year, they attended the iHeartRadio Music Awards together. Fans were surprised to see how tall and grown-up Kniko had become.

More recently, in 2025, Kniko was spotted at an NBA game sitting courtside with Draya. They were there to support Jalen Green, who is not just an NBA star but also the father of Kniko’s baby sister.

These moments are rare but sweet. They show that even though Kniko avoids the spotlight, he still makes time to support his family and enjoy life.

What Kniko Howard is Doing Now (2025)

So what is Kniko Howard doing today?

As of 2025, Kniko is 23 years old and still attending Georgia State University in Atlanta. He’s focused on school, personal growth, and living a calm, private life.

We don’t know his exact career plans yet. He hasn’t shared any public info about jobs or projects. But what’s clear is that he is building his life step by step, quietly and wisely.

His story shows that even if your mom is a celebrity, you can still choose your own path — and stay true to yourself.

How Kniko is Different from Other Celebrity Kids

Kniko Howard’s life is very different from most kids of celebrities.

He doesn’t chase fame. He doesn’t use his mother’s name to become popular. He doesn’t try to get attention. Instead, he stays humble, quiet, and focused on living a real, honest life.

This makes Kniko stand out. While other celebrity kids are trying to become influencers or actors, Kniko is just living like a regular young man. He’s studying, helping his family, and growing in his own way.

Many fans respect him for that. It’s not easy to stay private when your mom is famous — but Kniko does it with calm and confidence.

Final Thoughts

Kniko Howard may not be a celebrity, but his story is still worth telling. He was raised by a strong mother, grew up quietly, and made smart choices about his life.

Even though he had many chances to be in the spotlight, he didn’t take that road. He chose privacy, peace, and purpose. And that makes him different in the best way.

Draya Michele worked hard to raise a kind, respectful, and smart son. And from what we can see, she did an amazing job.

Kniko Howard’s journey is not loud or flashy — but it’s real, inspiring, and full of quiet strength.

(FAQs)

Who is Kniko Howard’s real dad?

Kniko’s father is Kniko Howard Sr., a barber from Pennsylvania — not a celebrity. He was in jail for 10 years while Draya Michele was pregnant.

How old is Kniko Howard, and when was he born?

Kniko Howard was born in 2002, and he is 23 years old in 2025.

Is Jalen Green Kniko Howard’s stepdad?

Not officially, but Jalen Green is the father of Kniko’s baby sister, born in 2024 — making him part of the blended family.

Does Kniko Howard have Instagram?

Yes, but it’s private. He avoids fame and doesn’t share his life online like other celebrity kids.

How tall is Kniko Howard now?

Kniko Howard is around 5 feet 11 inches tall — and yes, he’s now taller than Draya Michele!