Brandon Blackstock, Kelly Clarkson’s Ex-Husband, D**s at 48

Brandon Blackstock, former manager and ex-husband of singer Kelly Clarkson, has passed away at the age of 48.

A Brave Battle with Ca**er

People Magazine confirmed the news through a statement from Blackstock’s family, just two days after Clarkson postponed her Las Vegas residency. At the time, she revealed he had been seriously ill.

A family spokesperson shared,

“It is with great sadness that we share the news that Brandon Blackstock has passed away. Brandon bravely battled ca**er for more than three years. He passed away peacefully, surrounded by family. We thank you for your thoughts and prayers and ask for privacy during this difficult time.”

According to TMZ, Blackstock had been fighting melanoma, a severe form of skin cancer, for over three and a half years. He died peacefully on the morning of August 7.

Clarkson’s Recent Absences Explained

Fans had speculated for months about Kelly Clarkson’s health and her absence from The Kelly Clarkson Show. Some believed she was preparing to step down. However, it now appears those absences were connected to Blackstock’s declining health.

In a heartfelt message on August 6, Clarkson shared:

“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.”

She also thanked fans for their “grace, kindness, and understanding.”

A Life of Family and Music

Blackstock and Clarkson shared two children together—River, 11, and Remington, 9. He also had two older children, Savannah and Seth, from a previous marriage. In 2022, Savannah made Blackstock a grandfather with the birth of her son, Lake.

A Love Story That Started in Music

The couple first met in May 2006 during a rehearsal for the Academy of Country Music Awards. At the time, Blackstock was still married to his first wife, Melissa Ashworth.

Clarkson once recalled the moment:

“This guy walks by, making everybody laugh. I said, ‘I’m gonna end up with him. I know it.’”

They reconnected years later at the Super Bowl and eventually married in 2013. Blackstock later became her manager.

In a 2018 interview with Marie Claire, Clarkson said:

“I wouldn’t have hired Brandon to be my manager if I didn’t see first-hand how great he is… He’s really talented at what he does.”

Divorce and Moving Forward

The couple divorced in 2022 after nearly a decade of marriage. Despite the separation, Clarkson remained supportive of Blackstock’s role as a father and stayed focused on their children’s well-being.

In Memory

Brandon Blackstock leaves behind a legacy of love, music, and resilience. His family, friends, and fans will remember him not only for his professional contributions but for the quiet strength he showed throughout his battle with ca**er.

Rest in peace, Brandon Blackstock.