Brandon Blackstock, a longtime talent manager and the ex-husband of singer Kelly Clarkson, has died at the age of 48. A representative for the Blackstock family confirmed that he passed away after a private battle with cancer, saying in a statement, “Brandon bravely battled cancer for more than three years. He passed away peacefully, surrounded by family.” The family’s statement expressed gratitude for support and asked for privacy as they mourn this loss.
Blackstock was well-known in the music industry, having managed major artists including country superstar Blake Shelton. He was also the former stepson of country icon Reba McEntire. Blackstock’s relationship with Clarkson began in 2006, and the couple married in 2013. During their marriage, Clarkson wrote heartfelt songs inspired by their life together, including the ballad “Piece By Piece.” They share two young children, daughter River and son Remington, and Blackstock had two older children from a previous marriage. Clarkson filed for divorce in 2020, and the split was finalized in 2022.
Just days before Blackstock’s passing, Clarkson revealed publicly that her children’s father had been seriously ill, even postponing her Las Vegas residency to focus on caring for their kids. In her message to fans, Clarkson said she needed to be fully present for her family during the difficult time. Blackstock is being remembered by loved ones for his dedication to family and his contributions behind the scenes in the music world, and many in the entertainment community have extended condolences to Clarkson and the Blackstock family.
