Yesterday, we reported that Brandon Blackstock, the ex-husband of Kelly Clarkson and the former stepson of Reba McEntire, had died at the age of 48. Now, sad new details are coming to light about his passing.
Sad Details About Blackstock’s Death
Earlier this year, Clarkson, 43, inexplicably missed ten episodes of her eponymous talk show The Kelly Clarkson Show. She never revealed exactly why she missed the shows, instead only saying that her absence was due to “personal reasons.”
Now, insiders are confirming that Clarkson missed the shows so that she could take care of Blackstock as he battled melanoma.
“It’s been exhausting and so sad… ” a source told Page Six. “Kelly has been working so hard, as well as looking after Brandon. Despite their difficult divorce, he’s still the man she loved and still her kids’ father.”
Clarkson missed ten episodes of her talk show in March, when she was gone for nearly two weeks. Then, last month, Clarkson canceled the first night of her “Studio Sessions” Las Vegas residency just 90 minutes before showtime, devastating fans.
“Kelly’s personal life is so insanely complicated,” a source tellingly said at the time. “Kelly is fighting some serious hidden battles that very few people are privy to … it’s a source of emotional and therefore physical distress for her.”
Backstory: Kelly Clarkson’s Ex-Husband Brandon Blackstock Dead At 48 After Cancer Battle
Clarkson Is ‘Devastated’ By Blackstock’s Death
Clarkson and Blackstock were married from 2013 until 2020. Their divorce was finalized in 2022 after a series of bitter legal battles. They are parents to daughter River, 11, and son Remington, 9. Another insider said that Clarkson is “devastated” for her two children in the wake of their father’s death.
“When she found out that he was sick, she remained protective of him for their sake,” this source told People Magazine. “Kelly has always tried to keep things classy. It became clear earlier this year that Brandon was not doing well. She’s been devastated for the kids.”
Blackstock had been battling cancer for three years at the time of his death. Despite the messiness of their divorce, Clarkson never stopped being there for Blackstock. Indeed, it was always important to her that her children have a close relationship with their father.
“The divorce was incredibly difficult for her — messy, painful and something she felt terrible about,” the insider explained. “But she always wanted her kids to have the best relationship possible with their dad. She never spoke poorly about Brandon to the kids.”
Clarkson Postpones Residency
On Wednesday, Clarkson postponed the remaining August shows of her Las Vegas residency.
“Unfortunately, I need to postpone the remainder of the August Studio Session dates in Las Vegas,” Clarkson wrote on social media.
“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 continued. “I am sincerely sorry to everyone who bought tickets to the shows and I so appreciate your grace, kindness and understanding.”
Full Story: Kelly Clarkson Cancels Concerts As She Makes Heartbreaking Announcement About Ex-Husband’s Health
Blackstock’s Death
Sadly, Blackstock died the next day.
“It is with great sadness that we share the news that Brandon Blackstock has passed away,” a rep for the family told People Magazine.
“Brandon bravely battled cancer for more than three years. He passed away peacefully and was surrounded by family,” the statement added. “We thank you for your thoughts and prayers and ask everyone to respect the family’s privacy during this very difficult time.”
This is clearly an incredibly tragic time for Clarkson, her children, and for Blackstock’s entire family. Please join us in saying a prayer for them.
Rest in peace, Brandon Blackstock.
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