Reba McEntire’s Past Comments on Stepson Brandon Blackstock Resurface After His D**th
Reba McEntire’s 2021 remarks about her stepson, Brandon Blackstock, and his high-profile divorce with Kelly Clarkson have returned to public attention following Brandon’s recent passing at age 48 on August 7, 2025. The comments carry new weight amid the family’s loss.
Reba Stood Neutral Amid Divorce
Reba, who was married to Brandon’s father Narvel Blackstock for 26 years before their 2015 divorce, spoke candidly about Brandon and Kelly’s 2020 separation. She emphasized she would not take sides, saying, “Kelly and I do talk, we text, and I love them both. I can’t play favorites.”
Despite no bl0*d relation, Reba considered Brandon her own son. She shared, “Brandon’s been my son forever. Although he’s my stepson, I love him like he’s my bl0*d. I’m praying for them both because I love them both.”
Continued Support Despite Family Changes
Reba and Narvel publicly stated that, despite their split, they would continue supporting each other and working together professionally. Reba updated fans in late 2015, confirming their divorce had been finalized.
When asked if she offered Kelly advice amid the divorce, Reba again expressed love and support for both, hoping they would find happiness and strength during difficult times.
Brandon Blackstock posing with family members in a post dated March 6, 2025, in Houston, Texas | Source: Instagram/shelbyblackstock
Kelly Clarkson on Her Relationship with Reba
Kelly Clarkson also spoke warmly about her friendship with Reba during a 2023 interview. She revealed that their bond remained strong and that they still text regularly. Kelly credited Reba as a major influence on her career and noted they continued to work together on The Voice after her divorce.
Coping with Brandon’s Illness and Passing
Though divorced, Kelly protected Brandon during his private three-year cancer battle. An insider revealed Kelly kept things “classy” and prioritized their children’s relationship with their father. Kelly paused her Las Vegas residency in August 2025, citing a family health emergency related to Brandon.
Fans expressed overwhelming support for Kelly, applauding her focus on family despite the challenges she faced.
Family Moments and Recent Social Media Posts
The last known family photos with Brandon appeared in March 2025, shared by Brandon’s half-brother Shelby Blackstock. The images showed the family enjoying time together at Rodeo Houston and attending a Reba McEntire concert.
Divorce’s Emotional Toll Reflected in Kelly’s Music
Kelly’s divorce from Brandon, finalized in 2022 after lengthy legal battles, included substantial child support agreements. She described the divorce and custody struggles as painful and isolating.
In her album Chemistry, Kelly candidly expressed the emotional journey of heartbreak and healing. She credited therapy and music as vital outlets that helped her reclaim her power and manage grief.
Brandon Blackstock’s d**th has brought renewed focus on his complex family relationships. Through all the ups and downs, Reba McEntire and Kelly Clarkson have maintained respect, love, and support for Brandon and each other—especially for the sake of their children.
