“American Idol” alum Kelly Clarkson’s ex-husband, Brandon Blackstock, has died at the age of 48. On August 7, a representative for the Blackstock family confirmed his passing after a private, three-year battle with cancer.
“It is with great sadness that we share the news that Brandon Blackstock has passed away,” the family said in a statement published in People.
As the Blackstock family grieves this personal tragedy, Kelly has remained focused on fiercely protecting her children and supporting them through this devastating loss.
How Kelly Protected Her Family’s Privacy During Brandon’s Cancer Battle
(Photo by Rich Fury/Getty Images)Kelly Clarkson quietly stepped back from her packed work schedule in recent months to focus on what matters most: her children.
“Kelly’s work schedule has been difficult over the last few months as she needed to take care of her kids,” a source told Us Weekly. “She needed the time off as her kids come first. It’s terrible and sad.”
Clarkson shares daughter River Rose, 10, and son Remington, 8, with her ex-husband Brandon Blackstock, who passed away at age 48 following a private battle with cancer.
Only a Few Knew the Truth Behind the Scenes
Getty (Rachel Murray for FIJI Water)According to insiders, only a few people within Clarkson’s inner circle and production team were aware of the situation unfolding behind the scenes.
“Kelly is a great mom and has needed to be there for her kids,” the source added.
The American Idol alum had been juggling her Las Vegas Studio Sessions residency, which began in July, while quietly supporting her children through their father’s health decline.
Brandon Blackstock Remembered After Private Three-Year Cancer Battle
On August 7, a spokesperson for the Blackstock family confirmed his passing: “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.”
In addition to River and Remy, Brandon is survived by his father Narvel Blackstock, older children Savannah and Seth from his first marriage, and his growing group of grandchildren. (Savannah recently announced she is expecting her second child with husband Quentin Lee.)
Clarkson Postponed Vegas Shows to Be Fully Present for Her Kids
On August 6, Clarkson shared a vulnerable statement on social media confirming the postponement of her August Studio Session dates in Las Vegas.
“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 wrote. “I am sincerely sorry to everyone who bought tickets to the shows, and I so appreciate your grace, kindness and understanding.”
Inside Kelly Clarkson’s Journey From Co-Parenting to Guiding Her Kids Through Grief
(Photo by Jamie McCarthy/Getty Images for Entertainment Weekly)Clarkson and Blackstock were married from 2013 to 2020. They finalized their divorce in 2022 with a focus on amicable co-parenting.
“She has a great coparenting relationship with Brandon, but things haven’t always been easy in terms of their personal relationship,” a second source told Us Weekly in 2023. “They’ve come a long way and are handling things with their kids really well.”
Now, Clarkson continues to lead with compassion and strength, guiding her children through grief.
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How Kelly Clarkson Fiercely Protected Family’s Privacy Amid Ex Brandon Blackstock’s Cancer Battle