Following the tragic news of Brandon Blackstock’s passing at age 48 after a long battle with cancer, many fans are wondering about his ties to country music legend Reba McEntire. The connection is a family one, and here’s how it all fits together.
Brandon Was Reba’s Stepson for Over Two Decades
Brandon Blackstock, a respected Hollywood talent manager and the ex-husband of pop star and TV personality Kelly Clarkson, was once the stepson of Reba McEntire. That family bond came through Reba’s 26-year marriage to Narvel Blackstock, Brandon’s father.
Narvel and Reba tied the knot in 1989, just one year after Narvel’s divorce from his first wife, Elisa Gayle Ritter. Brandon was Narvel’s son from that first marriage, which lasted from 1973 to 1988. So while Reba wasn’t Brandon’s biological mom, she was very much a parental figure in his life for decades.
During their marriage, Reba and Narvel also welcomed one child together — a son named Shelby Blackstock, who is now a professional racecar driver.
Brandon’s Family: A Blended Musical Dynasty
Brandon was the second of three children from Narvel’s marriage to Elisa. He had two sisters, Chassidy Celeste and Shawna Rene Blackstock. With Reba entering the picture in 1989, Brandon became part of one of country music’s most well-known blended families.
Over the years, Brandon worked alongside his dad in the entertainment industry, helping manage big stars like Blake Shelton and Carly Pearce. He later became Kelly Clarkson’s manager and eventually her husband. The two got married in 2013 and had two children together — River Rose and Remy Alexander — before divorcing in 2022.
Reba and Narvel’s Divorce
Reba McEntire and Narvel Blackstock were married for 26 years before they went their separate ways. Their divorce was finalized on October 28, 2015.
Reba shared the news with fans via Facebook, writing, “Narvel and I are divorced. It was final October 28. Thanks for all of those sweet messages. Narvel and I are friends. We have always been.”
In a more formal statement on her website, Reba clarified that they had been separated for a few months before making things official. Despite their split, the two continued to work together and remained on good terms. “They have asked that you respect their privacy during this time,” the statement concluded.
Remembering Brandon Blackstock
Brandon’s death was confirmed by his representatives to People magazine, who shared a statement on behalf of the family.
“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 thanked fans and friends for their prayers and asked for privacy during this difficult time.
As the entertainment world mourns the loss of Brandon Blackstock, his deep connections to both Kelly Clarkson and Reba McEntire reflect a life filled with family, music, and enduring legacies.
