Jordan Knight’s Family, Relationships, and Friends: Everything You Need to Know
Jordan Knight is a singer-songwriter who first gained fame as the lead vocalist of New Kids on the Block. He values family, relationships, and friends, focusing on maintaining close ties with each. Over the years, his personal life has drawn as much attention as his successful music career.
Family Members and Background
| Name | Relation | Birth Year |
|---|---|---|
| Allan Knight | Father | 1946 |
| Marlene Putnam | Mother | 1948 |
| Jonathan Knight | Brother | 1968 |
| Other brothers | Brothers | N/A |
| Sister(s) | Sister(s) | N/A |
| Evelyn Melendez | Wife | 1970 |
| Dante Jordan Knight | Son | 1999 |
| Eric Jacob Knight | Son | 2007 |
Jordan Knight grew up in Worcester, Massachusetts, as the youngest child of Allan Knight and Marlene Putnam. His father, Allan, worked as an Episcopal priest, while his mother, Marlene, devoted herself to raising their six children.
Jordan was surrounded by family and music from a young age. His brother, Jonathan Knight, also found fame as a member of New Kids on the Block.
Knight is married to Evelyn Melendez. They started dating in 1992 and married in a private ceremony in September 2004. The wedding included only close family members.
Jordan and Evelyn welcomed their first son, Dante, in 1999 and their second son, Eric, in 2007. Both children are their biological sons.
Evelyn tends to keep a low public profile, focusing on supporting their family. The couple has remained dedicated to their children’s upbringing, often prioritizing time together despite Jordan’s busy career.
Relationships in His Life
| Name | Relationship Type | Time Period |
|---|---|---|
| Shanna Moakler | Ex-Girlfriend | 1996 – 1997 |
Jordan Knight’s most notable past relationship before marriage was with Shanna Moakler, an American model and actress. Shanna was Miss USA 1995 and later became known for her TV appearances and modeling career.
Jordan and Shanna dated for about a year, from 1996 to 1997. Their relationship was occasionally covered in entertainment media, given both of their public profiles.
They met in industry circles while Jordan was building his solo career and Shanna was gaining visibility in pageantry and acting. Their relationship ended amicably, reportedly due to busy schedules and career differences.
Afterward, Jordan focused on his music and eventually met Evelyn, who became his wife and the mother of his children. He has not been publicly linked to other significant romantic relationships since then.
Friends and Longtime Companions
| Name | Known Since | Profession |
|---|---|---|
| Donnie Wahlberg | 1984 | Singer, Actor |
| Joey McIntyre | 1985 | Singer, Actor |
| Danny Wood | 1984 | Singer, Producer |
| Jonathan Knight | Childhood | Singer |
Jordan Knight’s closest friends have roots in New Kids on the Block. Donnie Wahlberg, Joey McIntyre, Danny Wood, and brother Jonathan Knight make up a core group that has spanned decades.
The friendships began in the 1980s, when the band came together. Donnie, Joey, and Danny have remained not only bandmates but trusted friends through career ups and downs.
Jonathan Knight, being his brother, shared childhood experiences and later professional milestones. This mix of family and friendship helped form a strong support network.
They often reunite for tours and special occasions. Their shared history and time on the road have kept their friendships active. Disagreements are rare and have never ended any of these longstanding bonds.
