Kelly Clarkson’s ex-husband Brandon Blackstock has died aged 48 years old after a three-year battle with cancer.
The heartbreaking news came after the singer postponed the remainder of her Las Vegas residency, citing a family emergency involving her the music manager’s health.
In a statement posted on Thursday, Starstruck Entertainment, the agency where Blackstock worked, 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."
The singer took to Instagram late on Wednesday to share news of her cancelled gigs, writing: “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.”
The Since You Been Gone hit-maker added: “I am sincerely sorry to everyone who bought tickets to the shows and I so appreciate your grace, kindness and understanding.”
Clarkson had also taken unexplained time off from The Kelly Clarkson Show, her hit daytime talk show on NBC.
No official reason was given for her absence at the time, but her latest statement provides new context around the personal challenges she has been navigating.
Clarkson had four Studio Sessions performances left this month at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace. The residency had already experienced delays — last month, she cancelled her opening night just hours before taking the stage, citing vocal strain.
“The prep and rehearsals have taken a toll on my voice,” she told fans at the time. “I want the shows to be perfect for y’all and I need to protect myself from doing serious damage.”
Clarkson was married to Blackstock from 2013 to 2022. The couple share two children: daughter River and son Remington. They separated in 2020 and finalised their divorce two years later.
In a January 2024 interview with People, Clarkson described how her 2023 album Chemistry helped her process the emotional aftermath of the split.
“I cannot express how appreciative I feel for having that kind of healthy outlet,” the former American Idol winner said.
“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.”
No rescheduled dates for the postponed shows have yet been announced.
