“American Idol” alum Kelly Clarkson is mourning the death of her ex-husband, Brandon Blackstock, who passed away at 48 following a private battle with cancer. Just one day before his family confirmed the heartbreaking news, Clarkson announced she was canceling the remainder of her Las Vegas “Studio Sessions” residency to be with her children.
“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 said in a statement on August 6.
When Kelly Happily Announced Her Engagement On Twitter
Clarkson and Blackstock’s relationship began in 2012. By the end of the year, the pop star excitedly announced their engagement on Twitter, writing, “I’M ENGAGED! Happiest night of my life last night!”
From Engagement to Co-Parenting: A Public & Private Love Story
They married in 2013 and later welcomed two children. During their marriage, Clarkson often spoke about how Blackstock brought stability to her life, including during a heartfelt interview on The Ellen DeGeneres Show where she gushed, “I am not alone for the first time for Thanksgiving and Christmas and I’m very happy.”
Clarkson Quietly Paused Work to Care for Blackstock
(Photo by Emma McIntyre/Getty Images)Earlier this year, Clarkson took an unannounced break from “The Kelly Clarkson Show”, prompting speculation among fans. According to multiple sources, the singer stepped away in February and March to care for Blackstock behind the scenes, as he quietly fought a long and challenging battle with cancer.
Though they finalized their divorce in 2022, Clarkson remained closely involved in his care for the sake of their two children — River, 10, and Remington, 8.
Remembering Brandon Blackstock’s Music Legacy
(Photo by Rachel Murray/Getty Images for FIJI Water)Brandon Blackstock worked in the entertainment world as a talent manager. He was also part of a music legacy family; his father, Narvel Blackstock, managed Reba McEntire for years, and Reba was Brandon’s stepmother for more than two decades.
He is remembered as a devoted father to his four children and a quiet force in the industry. His last months were spent surrounded by his loved ones, including his youngest children with Clarkson and his grandchildren.
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The Moment Kelly Clarkson Announced Her Engagement: PHOTO