Brandon Blackstock, Kelly Clarkson’s Ex-Husband and Respected Talent Manager, Dies at 48 After Cancer Battle
The entertainment world is mourning the loss of Brandon Blackstock, a renowned talent manager and the former husband of pop superstar Kelly Clarkson. Known not only for his high-profile relationships but also for his instrumental role behind the scenes in shaping careers, Blackstock passed away peacefully at the age of 48 after a brave three-year battle with cancer.
His family confirmed the heartbreaking news in a statement to PEOPLE, saying, “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.”
A Life Woven into Music and Family
Brandon Blackstock’s legacy is deeply rooted in both the entertainment industry and his complex yet tightly knit family. As the former stepson of country legend Reba McEntire, Brandon was no stranger to the limelight. His father, Narvel Blackstock, was McEntire’s manager and husband for over 25 years. It’s safe to say that talent management was in his DNA.
Brandon went on to build his own name in the business, notably managing country icon Blake Shelton and later Kelly Clarkson herself. Many close to him said he had an uncanny ability to see an artist’s potential and help them reach new heights.
In 2013, Clarkson herself commented on Blackstock’s talent as a manager, saying, “I wouldn’t have hired Brandon to be my manager if I didn’t see firsthand how great he is at that… He’s really talented at what he does.”
Love, Marriage, and Music with Kelly Clarkson
Brandon and Kelly Clarkson’s love story began in 2006 at a rehearsal for the Academy of Country Music Awards. Clarkson recalled that moment with clarity: “This guy walks by, making everybody laugh. I said, ‘I'm gonna end up with him. I know it.’” They reconnected years later at the Super Bowl and eventually tied the knot in October 2013.
The couple’s relationship became an inspiration to many, with Clarkson even writing the emotional hit “Piece by Piece,” in which she credited Blackstock for restoring her faith in love and fatherhood. The song drew a striking contrast between Blackstock’s stability and Clarkson’s own troubled relationship with her father.
Their marriage produced two children, daughter River Rose, now 11, and son Remington Alexander, 9. Blackstock also had two older children, Savannah and Seth, from a previous marriage. In 2022, he became a grandfather when Savannah welcomed her son, Lake.
Despite the fairytale beginning, their marriage ultimately ended in divorce in 2022 after Clarkson filed in 2020. It was a difficult and highly publicized split, but Clarkson later revealed that she had tried her best to make the marriage work. “I wanted to make it beautiful… and sometimes that just doesn’t happen,” she reflected in 2023.
A Father, A Grandfather, and a Fighter
While many knew Brandon as a talent manager, his family knew him as a devoted father and grandfather. In March 2024, despite his ongoing health struggles, Brandon was spotted enjoying a day at the Houston Rodeo with River, Remington, and his brother Shelby, joined by Reba McEntire—highlighting the deep familial bonds that remained strong even after his divorce from Clarkson.
Clarkson revealed on August 6 that she had postponed her Las Vegas residency to be fully present for her children, saying, “This past year, my children’s father has been ill and at this moment, I need to be fully present for them.” Her heartfelt message reflected not only her dedication to her kids but also the quiet respect she held for her former partner as he neared the end of his journey.
A Lasting Legacy
Brandon Blackstock leaves behind not only four beloved children and one grandson, but also a respected name in the world of music and talent management. Throughout his life, he had a gift for nurturing talent and building careers, and he did so while navigating the challenges of being in the public eye through marriages, divorces, and health battles.
He is survived by his sons Seth and Remington, daughters Savannah and River, grandson Lake, father Narvel Blackstock, mother Elisa Gayle Ritter, and siblings Shelby, Shawna, and Chassidy.
As fans and celebrities alike react to the news of his death, tributes are pouring in—celebrating a man who, though often in the background, helped shape the soundtracks of many lives and touched hearts with his authenticity, humor, and resilience.
Rest in peace, Brandon Blackstock. Your presence behind the scenes may have been quiet, but your impact was profound.
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