Brandon Blackstock, who was previously married to Kelly Clarkson and also her talent manager, has passed away at the age of 48 after a brave battle with cancer, his family confirmed on Thursday. A representative for the Blackstock family conveyed in a statement to The Associated Press that Brandon had fought cancer courageously for over three years and peacefully passed away surrounded by loved ones. The family expressed gratitude for the thoughts and prayers extended to them and requested privacy during this challenging time.
The sad news was initially disclosed by People magazine. Clarkson recently announced the postponement of her “Studio Session” concerts in Las Vegas, citing the need to focus on her children, stating, “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.”
Blackstock was a father of four, with two children from his previous marriage to Melissa Ashworth, named Savannah and Seth, and two young children with Clarkson, named River and Remington. In 2022, he became a grandfather when Savannah welcomed a son named Lake.
Blackstock and Clarkson first met in 2006 during a rehearsal for the Academy of Country Music Awards. They reconnected in 2012 at a Super Bowl event and tied the knot in October 2013. However, their marriage faced challenges, leading to Clarkson filing for divorce in 2020, citing irreconcilable differences. The divorce was finalized in 2022, following a contentious legal process. In 2024, the couple settled lawsuits related to financial disputes during their marriage.
Aside from managing Clarkson, Blackstock also represented prominent artists like Blake Shelton and Rascal Flatts. His career began at Starstruck Entertainment, a company owned by his father, Narvel Blackstock. Notably, Narvel Blackstock was previously married to country icon Reba McEntire from 1989 to 2015 and is the father of Brandon’s brother, Shelby. Narvel initially managed Clarkson before his son took over.
These details shed light on the life and career of Brandon Blackstock, a figure deeply connected to the music industry and known for his professional relationships and personal associations.