Kelly Clarkson’s Ex’s Family Releases Heartfelt Statement Upon His Passing

Brandon Blackstock, a music manager best known as the ex-husband of Kelly Clarkson and the former stepson of Reba McEntire, has died at age 48.

“It is with great sadness that we share the news that Brandon Blackstock has passed away,” a family rep shared in a statement to People.

“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.”

(Photo by Emma McIntyre/Getty Images)

Blackstock kept his health battle private for years, with few public updates—until his death stunned fans and those close to the country music world.

Kelly Clarkson Postpones Las Vegas Shows to Support Their Children

On Wednesday, Aug. 6, Kelly Clarkson revealed that Blackstock had been ill and that she had postponed her Las Vegas residency to be with their children, daughter River, 11, and son Remington, 9.

“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,” Clarkson shared in a heartfelt message. She also thanked fans for their “grace, kindness and understanding” during the difficult time.

Clarkson & Blackstock were married from 2013 to 2020, and co-parented their two young children after their split.

Blackstock Was a Father of Four & Grandfather to One

(Photo by Rachel Murray/Getty Images for FIJI Water)

In addition to River and Remington, Blackstock had two older children from a previous marriage: Savannah and Seth. In 2022, he became a grandfather when Savannah welcomed her first child, a son named Lake.

Despite his private nature, Blackstock occasionally shared family moments publicly. In March 2024, he was photographed enjoying the Houston Rodeo with River, Remington, his brother Shelby Blackstock, and Shelby’s mom, Reba McEntire, who was previously married to Brandon’s father, Narvel Blackstock.

Remembering Brandon Blackstock’s Legacy in Music & Family

Blackstock worked behind the scenes in the entertainment industry as a talent manager, helping to guide the careers of several artists. His ties to music royalty ran deep, not only through his marriage to Clarkson and family connection to McEntire, but also through his father Narvel’s longtime role as McEntire’s manager and partner.