SHOCK & SORROW: Kelly Clarkson’s Ex-Husband Brandon Blackstock Dies at 48 After Private Melanoma Battle

In an emotional and devastating turn, Brandon Blackstock, ex-husband of pop icon Kelly Clarkson and seasoned talent manager, has passed away at the age of 48. His family shared the news with a sorrowful 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.”

According to sources, he courageously fought melanoma—a serious form of skin cancer—for over three years, choosing to keep his illness private until the end. He died earlier today, surrounded by loved ones. 

Kelly Clarkson and her family at the UglyDolls premiere.


A Story of Love, Divorce, and Unbreakable Bonds

For many, Kelly Clarkson’s hits define the turn of the millennium, but behind the music, her life intertwined deeply with Brandon’s. The pair met in 2006 and married in 2013, becoming parents to River, 11, and Remington, 9. Their relationship shifted after a difficult divorce process, finalized in 2022, which included a custody settlement and a public battle over property in Montana. 

Their separation didn’t erase the family ties. In early August, Kelly postponed her Las Vegas residency, noting:

“This past year, my children’s father has been ill, and at this moment, I need to be fully present for them.”


Managing Talent — and Life in the Spotlight

Brandon’s career extended beyond marriage; he managed careers for high-profile artists, including Blake Shelton, and also oversaw 68 episodes of Kelly’s daytime talk show. He played pivotal roles behind the scenes in the music industry.

Following their divorce, he stepped back from public life and moved to Montana, living quietly until news of his illness and death surfaced.

Kelly Clarkson and Brandon Blackstock at the Academy of Country Music Awards.


Grief, Support, and a Heavy Heart

The somber announcement comes with an outpouring of grief and support across fans and media, especially following Kelly’s canceled shows and absences earlier this year. Many speculate the cancellations were tied to Brandon’s health, though details remained private.

We are reminded how deeply personal pain can ripple through public life—affecting careers, music, schedules, and the lived realities of families behind the scenes.

Photo of Reba McEntire with Brandon Blackstock and family.


In Memoriam — A Call for Compassion

Brandon Blackstock’s passing is a stark reminder that even in brokenness, connections endure—in complex love, in shared parenthood, and in quiet acts of care. Today, we extend our heartfelt condolences to Kelly Clarkson, their children, and Brandon’s family. May they find strength and peace amid this unthinkable loss.