The music world was plunged into a state of profound grief today with the devastating news that Brandon Blackstock, a celebrated talent manager and the former husband of superstar Kelly Clarkson, has tragically passed away at the age of 48.
A representative for the heartbroken family released an official statement, confirming the grim news that has left fans and industry insiders reeling. “It is with great sadness that we share the news that Brandon Blackstock has passed away,” the statement read. “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 announcement casts a tragic shadow over Kelly Clarkson’s recent decision to postpone her Las Vegas residency. Just yesterday, she had taken to social media to explain her sudden need to be with their children, River, 11, and Remington, 9. In a message now filled with unbearable poignancy, she wrote, “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.”
Brandon Blackstock was a beloved figure deeply embedded in the heart of country music. He was the former stepson of the legendary Reba McEntire, who was married to his father, manager Narvel Blackstock, for 26 years. Above all, he was a doting father, not only to his children with Clarkson but also to his two older children, Savannah and Seth, from a previous marriage. He had recently embraced the role of a grandfather with immense joy.
Despite his separation from Clarkson, the family bonds remained visibly strong, a testament to his character. As recently as March 2024, Brandon was photographed sharing a joyful day at the Houston Rodeo with his children River and Remington, his brother Shelby, and his former stepmother, Reba McEntire, a picture of a loving, modern family now shattered by loss.
Many will remember the whirlwind romance that captured the public’s imagination. Their love story began at an awards show rehearsal in 2006. “This guy walks by, making everybody laugh,” Clarkson once recalled to a reporter, “I said, ‘I’m gonna end up with him. I know it.’” Their paths crossed again years later, leading to a beautiful marriage in 2013. This deep love famously inspired Clarkson’s powerful anthem, “Piece By Piece,” a song that detailed the safety and stability she found with Blackstock.
Following their marriage, Brandon also took on the role of his wife’s manager, a move that intertwined their lives both personally and professionally, making his loss an immeasurable void in both the family and the industry he helped shape.
