Brandon Blackstock, Kelly Clarkson’s Ex-Husband, Dies at 48 After Cancer Battle

Brandon Blackstock, known as a longtime talent manager and Kelly Clarkson’s ex-husband, has died at the age of 48 after a three-year battle with cancer. His family confirmed the heartbreaking news on Thursday, August 7, in a statement shared with USA TODAY.

“It is with great sadness that we share the news that Brandon Blackstock has passed away,” the family shared, noting that he died peacefully, surrounded by loved ones.

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The news of Blackstock’s passing came just a day after Kelly Clarkson, 43, announced that she was postponing her August Las Vegas residency dates to focus on her family.

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“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,” Clarkson wrote on Instagram about her Kelly Clarkson: Studio Sessions residency at Caesars Palace. She also thanked fans for their “grace, kindness and understanding.”

A Private Cancer Battle

According to the statement from the Blackstock family, Brandon had been privately fighting cancer for over three years.

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“He passed away peacefully and was surrounded by family,” the statement said. “We thank you for your thoughts and prayers and ask everyone to respect the family’s privacy during this very difficult time.”

His Legacy in Music and Entertainment

Brandon Blackstock had a major presence in the music industry. He was not only Clarkson’s manager for years, but also worked alongside his father, Narvel Blackstock, helping manage big names like Blake Shelton and Carly Pearce.

He also had strong ties to country royalty. His stepmother for 26 years was none other than Reba McEntire, who was married to his dad Narvel.

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Clarkson and Blackstock got married on October 20, 2013, in a private ceremony at Blackberry Farm in Walland, Tennessee. She later shared sweet moments from their big day on social media.

Their Marriage and Divorce

Their relationship came under a microscope after their divorce proceedings began in 2020. Though the couple had once appeared rock solid, their split was anything but quiet. Clarkson was granted primary custody of their children in November 2020, and the divorce was officially finalized in March 2022.

Together, they share two children: daughter River Rose, now 11, and son Remy Alexander, 9. Blackstock also had two older children from a previous relationship, Seth and Savannah.

A New Life in Montana

Following his split from Clarkson, Blackstock left the spotlight and settled down in Bozeman, Montana. There, he launched Valley View Rodeo and lived a quieter, more private life.

Clarkson opened up in 2023 about how tough the divorce had been on her. In an emotional interview with USA TODAY, she said, “I was very, very angry. I know a lot of people have gone through grief or a big tragedy like a divorce… but there’s nothing common when you’re going through it. It’s very foreign, it’s horrible.”

She added, “A lot of time stupid, stupid stuff gets said and you just can’t believe it. I was angry and really hurt.”

A Difficult Goodbye

Blackstock’s death marks a somber chapter for those close to him. As Kelly Clarkson takes time off to care for their children during this difficult time, fans around the world have sent their love and condolences to the family.

His legacy lives on through his work in music, his children, and the memories shared by those who knew and loved him.