Brandon Blackstock, the former husband of pop star and television host Kelly Clarkson, has died at the age of 48 following a private battle with cancer. The music talent manager passed away peacefully, surrounded by loved ones, according to a statement released by the family.
Blackstock, who was married to Clarkson for nearly a decade, had reportedly been battling cancer for more than three years. His death comes just days after Clarkson postponed her Las Vegas residency in order to care for their children during what she described as a personal crisis.
In a statement shared with People, a family representative confirmed the heartbreaking news: “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.”
Clarkson, who shares two children with Blackstock — daughter River Rose and son Remington Alexander — had recently addressed his health struggles on social media. In an Instagram post made earlier this week, she shared with fans why she was postponing her upcoming Las Vegas shows.
“Unfortunately, I need to postpone the remainder of the August Studio Session dates in Las Vegas,” 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. I am sincerely sorry to everyone who bought tickets to the shows and I so appreciate your grace, kindness and understanding.”
The couple had been married from 2013 until their divorce was finalised in 2022. Their split had drawn significant media attention, particularly surrounding a lengthy legal battle over spousal support and the division of assets. Despite their differences in court, Clarkson has consistently prioritised their children and maintained a level of public decorum regarding her ex-husband.
Blackstock had deep roots in the entertainment industry. The son of music executive Narvel Blackstock and former stepson of country legend Reba McEntire, he worked as a talent manager and represented major names in the business, including Blake Shelton. His professional ties to Shelton also led to high-profile interactions with Clarkson, especially during their time together on The Voice.
While the public was largely unaware of his illness, those close to the family have shared that Blackstock fought his battle quietly and courageously, choosing to keep details out of the spotlight to focus on his children and loved ones.
Tributes from the entertainment world have begun to pour in, though Clarkson herself has remained silent following the official announcement. Fans have flooded social media with messages of support for the singer and her family, noting the incredibly difficult time she must now face as both a mother and a public figure.
Many are also reflecting on Blackstock’s role not only as Clarkson’s ex-husband but as a father and music industry insider. Although his life was marked in later years by legal turmoil and personal challenges, those who knew him say he was deeply devoted to his children and remained a private, grounded figure away from the cameras.
At this time, no further details have been shared regarding funeral arrangements or memorial plans. The family has asked for privacy as they grieve and navigate the difficult road ahead.
Clarkson, who has always been open in her music about love, heartbreak and resilience, now faces one of the most emotionally demanding chapters of her life. Her decision to cancel shows in order to support her children during this time has been widely praised by fans, with many expressing admiration for her strength and grace amid personal loss.
Blackstock leaves behind a legacy intertwined with the music world, a lasting imprint on Clarkson’s life, and two young children who will carry his memory forward.
