Kelly Clarkson’s Ex-Husband Brandon Blackstock Tragically Passes Away at Age 48 & Fan Support Pours In

Kelly Clarkson‘s ex-husband and father of her children River, 11, and Remington, 9, has died after a long, private battle with cancer.

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

“Brandon bravely battled cancer for more than three years,” the statement read. “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.”

Just last night Clarkson announced she was postponing her Las Vegas residency to spend time with her children, revealing that Blackstock was ill. “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 wrote in an Instagram post.

Brandon Blackstock Was Reba McEntire’s Stepson

Country star and “The Voice” coach Reba McEntire was married to Blackstock’s father, Narvel Blackstock, from 1989 until 2015. In March, McEntire spent time with the Blackstocks, and her son Shelby Blackstock captured a sweet blended family pic.

“Family time, the @rodeohouston & corn dogs! We had a blast in Houston watching @rissablackstock experience her first rodeo & being able to spend cherished time with family! Mom’s concert was the icing on the cake!” Shelby captioned the Instagram post.

Clarkson and Blackstock split in 2020 after 7 years of marriage, and McEntire showed her support. “You know, I love them both, Brandon’s my stepson, Kelly’s my good friend and I’m pulling for both of them,” McEntire told Extra in 2021. “I hope they’re happy and healthy and pull through this.”

How Fans Are Showing Their Love & Support

When the news of Blackstock’s passing was announced, love and support from Clarkson’s fans poured in. “And everyone was up in arms she postponed her Vegas show,” a fan posted on X. “You never know what people are going through!”

Another wrote, “My heart goes out to all of those affected by his passing! Kelly was so deeply in love with him at one time and that kind of love does not die easily, if ever. The heartache sweet Remy and River must be experiencing is overwhelming. RIP Brandon.”

A different user posted, “Rest in peace Brandon, my heart goes out to Kelly & the children they had together. This is such a tragedy.” The sentiment was echoed by many more throughout various social media platforms.