Update, August 7, 2025, 2:30 p.m. ET
Kelly Clarkson's ex-husband, Brandon Blackstock, has died after a battle with cancer. He was 48 years old. Brandon was also the former stepson of country superstar Reba McEntire.
"It is with great sadness that we share the news that Brandon Blackstock has passed away," a rep for the family told People in an official statement. "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."
The news of Brandon's death comes just hours after Kelly announced she would be postponing her Studio Sessions Las Vegas residency to be with the former couple's children, River Rose and Remington "Remy" Alexander.
Our hearts are with Kelly and her family at this time.
Original, August 7, 2025, 11:59 a.m. ET
Kelly Clarkson is taking time to focus on the people that matter most to her.
Over the last few months, The Kelly Clarkson Show host has had fans concerned after an unexplained absence from the NBC series back in March. While Kelly made it back to work and kicked off her Studio Sessions residency in Las Vegas this summer, she went on Instagram to share an update involving her kids, River Rose and Remington "Remy" Alexander, and their dad, Kelly's ex-husband Brandon Blackstock.
Posting on Instagram on August 6, The Voice coach announced she needed to postpone the last dates in her music residency. As for the reason behind the career update, Kelly shared that Brandon has an undisclosed illness and she wants to be available for her kids as much as she can.
"Unfortunately, I need to postpone the remainder of the August Studio Session dates in Las Vegas," she wrote in a typed message. "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."
Shortly after Kelly dropped the update online, celebrities took to the comments to send her their love and support.
"Priorities ❤️ Sending love to you and your family," musician Debbie Gibson wrote in the comments. "Love you, Kelly. ❤️," actress Rita Wilson emotionally penned. "❤️❤️❤️," actress Arielle Kebbel added.
What's more, Kelly's fans rallied around her with their thoughts as well.
"Kelly, your family, [especially] your kids come first! That’s what makes you so special!" one person declared. "Those kids need you more than we do! Go be the best momma! Best wishes to all involved ❤️🙏," another commented. "Family always comes first, Kelly. Take the time you need ❤️," a different follower wished to her.
Fans may remember Kelly and Brandon were wed from 2013 to 2020. While their relationship has had its ups and downs over the years, Kelly has always been adamant about doing what she felt was best for River and Remy.
"I think parenting changes you in the best of ways," Kelly told Us Weekly in February 2020. "It’s made me stronger, but it’s definitely hard. It’s the hardest job out of all the jobs. … I think it makes you selfless. It makes you really prioritize."
We're wishing Kelly, Brandon and their family all the best in this difficult time.
As the entertainment and news associate editor for Good Housekeeping, Adrianna (she/her) writes about everything TV, movies, music and pop culture. She graduated from Yeshiva University with a B.A. in journalism and a minor in business management. She covers shows like The Rookie, 9-1-1 and Grey's Anatomy, though when she’s not watching the latest show on Netflix, she’s taking martial arts or drinking way too much coffee.
