Brandon Blackstock, the former husband of Kelly Clarkson, has died. He was 48.
A representative for the family told People in a statement: "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."
Blackstock was a talent manager and a former stepson of country star Reba McEntire. He and Clarkson were married from from 2013 to 2022 and have two children together, River and Remington.
Sources told TMZ that Blackstock was fighting melanoma, a serious form of skin cancer. His diagnosis was not known to the public until his death was announced on Thursday.
News of Blackstock’s death comes hours after Clarkson postponed the remainder of her Las Vegas residency dates for August.
The singer said in an Instagram post at the time: “Unfortunately, I need to postpone the remainder of the August Studio Session dates in Las Vegas.
“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.”
Clarkson and Blackstock were married for seven years before separating in June 2020, per People. Clarkson talked about her divorce, which was finalized two years after her separation, in a January 2024 interview with People.
Referring to her 2023 album Chemistry, the singer said: “I cannot express how appreciative I feel for having that kind of healthy outlet. Because the level of depression and things that come with divorce or grieving is extraordinarily hard.
“You feel alone, and it’s just a blessing to be able to have that outlet for those emotions that are overwhelming.”
Last month, the singer had to postpone her opening night show at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace just hours before she was set to take the stage for health reasons.
“We have been working 24/7 to make Studio Sessions the most intimate and extraordinary experience with and for my incredible fans,” she said on Instagram at the time. “I am beyond grateful that you always show up for me and I am devastated to have to postpone tonight and tomorrow’s opening at Caesars.
“The prep and rehearsals have taken a toll on my voice,” she continued. “I want the shows to be perfect for y’all and I need to protect myself from doing serious damage so I am taking this weekend and next week to rest up so that we can deliver what you all deserve,” she wrote.
