Curious about the news surrounding Brandon Blackstock’s death? The longtime talent manager and former husband of Kelly Clarkson died at 48 after a private health battle. His passing was confirmed just one day after Clarkson postponed her Las Vegas residency to focus on their children.
Here’s what we know about Brandon Blackstock’s death, his personal and professional background.
What happened to Brandon Blackstock?
Brandon Blackstock, a talent manager and Kelly Clarkson’s ex-husband, died from cancer at age 48.
His death was announced on August 7, 2025, by Starstruck Entertainment, the Nashville-based company owned by his father, Narvel Blackstock. The announcement came a day after Clarkson postponed her Las Vegas residency, citing the need to support their children during her ex-husband’s illness.
A family representative confirmed, “Brandon bravely battled cancer for more than three years. He passed away peacefully and was surrounded by family” (via People). Clarkson stated on August 6 that she needed to be “fully present” for her children, River and Remington, explaining the postponement of her August shows. Clarkson had previously delayed the residency’s start due to vocal issues.
Blackstock managed several high-profile artists, including Blake Shelton, and served as executive producer on The Kelly Clarkson Show from 2019 to 2020. He also worked at Starstruck Entertainment, founded by his father in 1988. He was previously the stepson of Reba McEntire, who was married to Narvel Blackstock from 1989 to 2015.
Blackstock and Clarkson married in 2013 after meeting in 2006 and reconnecting in 2012. They divorced in 2022. Clarkson credited him for inspiring her 2015 song “Piece By Piece,” which reflected the emotional stability she found in their relationship.
Blackstock had four children: Savannah and Seth from a previous marriage, and River and Remington with Clarkson. He became a grandfather in 2022 when Savannah gave birth to a son named Lake. In March 2024, Blackstock visited the Houston Rodeo with River, Remington, his brother Shelby, and Reba McEntire.
He is survived by his four children, grandson, father Narvel, mother Elisa Gayle Ritter, and siblings Shelby, Shawna, and Chassidy.
