Brandon Blackstock’s death has been officially attributed to melanoma, a form of skin cancer, according to Silver Bow County Coroner Dan Hollis. The 47-year-old talent manager died on August 7 at his home in Butte, Montana, under hospice care, surrounded by family. The manner of death was listed as natural causes.
A family representative confirmed the news the same day, sharing in a statement to PEOPLE, “It is with great sadness that we share the news that Brandon Blackstock has passed away. Brandon bravely battled cancer for more than three years. He passed away peacefully and was surrounded by family. We thank you for your thoughts and prayers and ask everyone to respect the family’s privacy during this very difficult time.”
The announcement came just one day after his ex-wife, Kelly Clarkson, revealed he was ill and that she was postponing her remaining August Las Vegas residency dates to care for their children — daughter River, 11, and son Remington, 9.
“Unfortunately, I need to postpone the remainder of the August Studio Session dates in Las Vegas,” Clarkson wrote on Instagram. “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. I am sincerely sorry to everyone who bought tickets to the shows and I so appreciate your grace, kindness and understanding.”
A source told PEOPLE that Clarkson has been “devastated” for her kids during Blackstock’s illness. “When she found out that he was sick, she remained protective of him for their sake. Kelly has always tried to keep things classy. It became clear earlier this year that Brandon was not doing well. She’s been devastated for the kids,” the source said.
Following his death, an insider shared that Clarkson is “staying strong” for her children. “Kelly and Brandon had their ups and downs, but at the end of the day, he was the father of her children and she is absolutely heartbroken for them. Her kids are her entire world, and she’s staying strong for their sake.”
In 2023, Clarkson spoke candidly about co-parenting with Blackstock, saying her children’s emotional well-being was always her top priority. She recalled regularly asking them if they were happy and encouraging honesty, even when they expressed sadness about their parents living apart. “I get it. I’m from a divorced family as well. That sucks. But we’re going to work it out. And you are so loved by both of us,” she told them.
Blackstock is survived by his sons Seth and Remington, daughters Savannah and River, grandson Lake, father Narvel Blackstock, mother Elisa Gayle Ritter, and siblings Shelby, Shawna, and Chassidy.
