Kelly Clarkson is focusing on her two children in the wake of her ex-husband Brandon Blackstock’s death, following his lengthy cancer battle. Blackstock, a music manager and father of two, died Thursday, August 7, at age 48, surrounded by family.
A loss felt beyond the headlines
Friends say Clarkson is “absolutely heartbroken,” especially for their kids, River, 11, and Remington, 9. The pair were married from 2013 to 2022, and though their split was publicly messy, the connection through their children remained.
“She’s staying strong for their sake,” a source told People. “Her kids are her entire world.”
Those close to the singer note that when she learned of Blackstock’s diagnosis more than three years ago, she made efforts to protect his privacy—particularly for the children’s emotional well-being.
Respect and restraint despite a difficult past
The divorce was a high-profile one, with disputes over property, custody, and finances. Still, insiders say Clarkson never wanted to publicly attack her ex.
“She’s always tried to keep things classy,” the source said, adding that earlier this year it became clear his health was deteriorating.
This respect reportedly extended to avoiding any public speculation about his illness until he was ready to share more.
The family’s statement on his passing
A representative confirmed the news Thursday, releasing a short, heartfelt 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.”
The announcement came with no additional medical details.
Blackstock, the son of music manager Narvel Blackstock, also had two older children from a previous marriage.
A pause in her career for family time
In late July, Clarkson postponed the rest of her August Las Vegas “Studio Session” residency dates. At the time, she told fans she needed to be “fully present” for her kids due to their father’s illness.
Her post on X read in part: “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.”
She apologized to fans and thanked them for their “grace, kindness and understanding.”
Just days later, the reason behind her decision became heartbreakingly clear.
Balancing grief with motherhood
Clarkson’s friends say her priority now is stability for River and Remington. That means keeping routines in place, while giving them space to process their loss.
It’s a delicate balance—shielding them from overwhelming public attention while letting them grieve openly.
She’s also reportedly leaning on close friends and family for support, keeping the children’s needs front and center.
