Brandon Blackstock, a respected talent manager and former husband of Kelly Clarkson, has died at 48 after a private three-year cancer battle. Known for his work with major music stars and his high-profile family connections, Blackstock’s passing has left a deep void among loved ones.
He died peacefully, surrounded by family, leaving behind children, grandchildren, and a legacy in the entertainment industry.
Life, Career, and Personal Relationships
Brandon Blackstock was both Kelly Clarkson’s ex-husband and the former stepson of country legend Reba McEntire. He was the son of Narvel Blackstock and Elisa Gayle Ritter, and had siblings Shelby, Shawna, and Chassidy.
Blackstock began his career as a talent manager, representing artists like Blake Shelton, and later managed Clarkson during their marriage. In a 2018 interview with Marie Claire, Clarkson said:
“I wouldn’t have hired Brandon to be my manager if I didn’t see first-hand how great he is at that and how much he cares… He’s really talented at what he does and his mind works in a completely different way.”
The two first met in 2006 at an Academy of Country Music Awards rehearsal, when Blackstock was still married to Melissa Ashworth. Years later, they reconnected at the Super Bowl, leading to their 2013 wedding. Clarkson’s 2015 song Piece By Piece was inspired by the emotional stability she found in him compared to her absent father.
Blackstock had two children from his previous marriage, Savannah and Seth, and shared daughter River and son Remington with Clarkson. He became a grandfather in 2022 when Savannah welcomed her son, Lake. In March 2024, Blackstock attended the Houston Rodeo with River, Remington, his brother Shelby, and Shelby’s mother, McEntire.
Illness, Passing, and Legacy
Blackstock’s cancer battle lasted more than three years, remaining private until Clarkson’s August 6, 2025 announcement that she was postponing her Las Vegas residency to focus on their children. She told fans she needed to be “fully present” and thanked them for their kindness and understanding.
In a statement shared with PEOPLE, a family representative said:
“It is with great sadness that we share the news that Brandon Blackstock has passed away. 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.”
Clarkson and Blackstock divorced in 2022, but she has since spoken openly about the difficulty of their split, stressing it was not a quick decision. Despite personal challenges, Blackstock maintained close family ties and was present for important moments in his children’s lives.
Brandon Blackstock is survived by his children — Savannah, Seth, River, and Remington — grandson Lake, parents Narvel and Elisa, and his siblings. Friends and family remember him for his dedication, humor, and resilience, leaving a lasting impact on both his loved ones and the music industry.