Brandon Blackstock, a talent manager known for his work with country stars and for his former marriage to singer Kelly Clarkson, has died at the age of 48. The family confirmed he had “bravely battled cancer for more than three years” and that he passed away peacefully surrounded by relatives.
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A private fight with illness
A family representative said Blackstock faced his illness away from the public eye. He had not publicly shared his diagnosis prior to his death, though Clarkson revealed on 6 August that he had been unwell and that she would be stepping back from her Las Vegas shows in order to be with their children. The family asked for privacy as they grieve.
Career and connections
Blackstock made his name in the music industry as a manager, working with high-profile artists including Blake Shelton. He was also the former stepson of country legend Reba McEntire, who was married to his father Narvel Blackstock from 1989 until 2015. Blackstock’s professional role placed him at the heart of country music’s inner circles and led to long-standing friendships within the industry.
Marriage, family and legacy
Blackstock and Kelly Clarkson met in 2006 and later reconnected. They married in October 2013 and became parents to two children together, River and Remington. Clarkson’s 2015 song “Piece By Piece” was widely reported to have been inspired by the stability she experienced during their relationship. The couple separated and Clarkson filed for divorce in 2020, with their divorce finalised in 2022. Blackstock is also survived by two children from a previous marriage, Savannah and Seth, and he became a grandfather in 2022 when Savannah welcomed a son.
Clarkson’s response and co-parenting
Sources familiar with Clarkson’s approach since learning of Blackstock’s illness describe her as prioritising their children’s wellbeing. She postponed performances and reduced public commitments to be present for River and Remington, reflecting a commitment to shielding them from unnecessary public scrutiny. People close to the family said Clarkson sought to maintain a positive co-parenting relationship for the sake of their children.
Remembering Brandon Blackstock
Friends and colleagues remember Blackstock as a devoted family man and a dedicated industry professional. The family statement thanked wellwishers for their thoughts and prayers and reiterated the request for privacy at this difficult time. He is survived by his children Savannah, Seth, River and Remington, his grandson Lake, his father Narvel Blackstock, his mother Elisa Gayle Ritter and his siblings Shelby, Shawna and Chassidy.
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