Brandon Blackstock, ex-husband of Kelly Clarkson, dies at 48 after cancer fight

A Life of Passion and Professionalism

Brandon Blackstock, a prominent talent manager and former husband of singer Kelly Clarkson, has passed away after a courageous battle with cancer. He was 48 years old. The news of his death came as a shock to many, especially those who followed his career and personal life closely.

A representative for the Blackstock family shared the heartbreaking news through a statement released on Thursday. “It is with great sadness that we share the news that Brandon Blackstock has passed away,” the statement read. “Brandon bravely battled cancer for more than three years. He passed away peacefully and was surrounded by family.” The family also expressed gratitude for the support they received during this difficult time, asking for privacy as they grieve.

The announcement came just a day after Clarkson had made the difficult decision to pause the rest of her Las Vegas residency. She cited Blackstock’s health as the reason for her decision. In a heartfelt statement posted on her verified Instagram account, she wrote, “While I normally keep my personal life private, this past year, my children’s father has been ill and at this moment, I need to be fully present for them.” She also apologized to fans who had purchased tickets, expressing appreciation for their understanding and kindness.

Family and Legacy

Brandon and Kelly are parents to two children: River, born in 2014, and Remington, born in 2016. His family background is deeply rooted in the music industry. Brandon was the stepson of country superstar Reba McEntire and the son of Narvel Blackstock, the CEO of Starstruck, a Nashville-based talent management firm. The company represents notable artists such as Blake Shelton and Carly Pearce.

Narvel Blackstock married Reba McEntire in 1989, and she played a significant role in raising Brandon. The couple eventually divorced in 2015 after 26 years of marriage. Like his parents, Brandon found his passion in the music industry, starting his career in talent management.

A Connection Through Music

Music was the bridge that brought Brandon Blackstock and Kelly Clarkson together. They first met at the Academy of Country Music Awards in 2006. Their paths crossed again in 2012 at Super Bowl XLVI, where Clarkson performed the national anthem. At the time, Blackstock was managing Blake Shelton, who was also at the event performing “America the Beautiful.”

They quickly developed a connection and eloped in 2013. Blackstock not only became Clarkson’s husband but also her manager and a producer on her award-winning daytime talk show, “The Kelly Clarkson Show.” However, their marriage ended in 2020 when Clarkson filed for divorce, citing “irreconcilable differences.” The couple settled their contentious divorce in 2022, with Clarkson agreeing to a one-time payment of $1.3 million and monthly spousal support until January 31, 2024, as well as ongoing child support payments.

Support from the Industry

In 2021, Reba McEntire spoke about her support for both Blackstock and Clarkson during their divorce. During an appearance on Extra, she expressed her love for both and encouraged others to offer them support. “I pray everyone gives them the encouragement they can because they need it right now, both of them do. I love the both of them with all my heart,” she said.

HAWXTECH reached out to representatives for both Clarkson and McEntire for further comments. This story has been updated with additional information. Alli Rosenbloom of HAWXTECH contributed to this report. For more updates and newsletters, readers are encouraged to create an account on HAWXTECH.