A Look at Kelly Clarkson’s History With Her Ex as She Steps up While He’s Ill

“American Idol” alum and all-around superstar Kelly Clarkson has made an important announcement regarding her ex-husband Brandon Blackstock‘s health and how it will impact her career.

Kelly Clarkson Is Focusing on Her Children

Clarkson and Blackstock’s relationship started after a chance encounter during a rehearsal for the Academy of Country Music Awards in May 2006, People reports. For Clarkson, it was instant chemistry.

“I’ve only had three other boyfriends that I dated, and not really seriously,” Clarkson told People in 2013. “This guy walks by, making everybody laugh. I said, ‘I’m gonna end up with him. I know it.'”

Clarkson filed for divorce in June 2020, and it was finalized two years later. Since their split, they haven’t always been on good terms. Still, the former couple are dedicated to co-parenting their two children: River, who was born in June 2014, and Remington, who was born in April 2016. This is also why Clarkson will be postponing her Las Vegas residency.

The “Because Of You” singer gave an update to fans on Wednesday, August 6, when she announced that she would be postponing her Las Vegas residency to focus on her children. Her statement was made in an Instagram post, and also included a brief mention of Blackstock’s poor health.

“Unfortunately, I need to postpone the remainder of the August Studio Session dates in Las Vegas,” Clarkson wrote. “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. I am sincerely sorry to everyone who bought tickets to the shows and I so appreciate your grace, kindness and understanding.”

She chose not to give further details about Blackstock or his health. Instead, she focuses on the importance of being “fully present” for her children. Some fans were disappointed and even angry at the news, but others showed their support for Clarkson’s decision in the comment section of the post.

“Family first. Praying for recovery and peace. We will miss the show, but hopefully can still make it for the reschedule!” a comment reads. “Those kids need you more than we do! Go be the best momma! Best wishes to all involved,” another person shared.

Kelly Clarkson Uses Music Like Therapy

Clarkson has previously discussed the breakdown in her marriage. She also used her music to help her heal and move on. “I’m a let-go person; I don’t hold grudges. So it was really delving into what happened in my life and why — and what am I going to do about it?” she told People in January 2024 of her songwriting process for her post-divorce album, “Chemistry.”

She continued, “I cannot express how appreciative I feel for having that kind of healthy outlet. Because the level of depression and things that come with divorce or grieving is extraordinarily hard. You feel alone, and it’s just a blessing to be able to have that outlet for those emotions that are overwhelming.”

Her songwriting was like “therapy” and helped her process her complicated feelings and take her “power back.”