Brandon Blackstock, Kelly Clarkson’s Former Husband and Manager, Dies at 48 After Cancer Battle

Published: August 8, 2025, 15:20 (U.S. Eastern Time)

Brandon Blackstock, the former talent manager known for representing top country artists and for his marriage to Grammy-winning singer Kelly Clarkson, has died at the age of 48. His family confirmed Thursday that he passed away following a three-year battle with cancer.

According to a statement released to The Associated Press by a family representative, Blackstock died peacefully, surrounded by loved ones. The family expressed gratitude for the public’s support and asked for privacy during this time of mourning.

A Private Health Struggle

News of Blackstock’s death follows Clarkson’s recent announcement that she was postponing her scheduled “Studio Session” concerts in Las Vegas. In a message shared on Instagram Wednesday, Clarkson explained:

“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.”

The revelation shed light on a difficult year for the former couple’s family, who had kept the details of Blackstock’s illness largely private.

Family and Personal Life

Blackstock was the father of four children. From his previous marriage to Melissa Ashworth, he had two adult children: Savannah and Seth. With Clarkson, he shared two young children: River and Remington. In 2022, he became a grandfather when his daughter Savannah welcomed a son named Lake.

His relationships with his children and extended family were central to his life. Loved ones remember him as deeply devoted to his family, both in his role as a father and a grandfather.

Meeting and Marriage with Kelly Clarkson

Blackstock and Clarkson first met in 2006 at a rehearsal for the Academy of Country Music Awards. Their paths crossed again in 2012 at a Super Bowl event, sparking a romance that led to their wedding in October 2013.

The marriage lasted seven years before Clarkson filed for divorce in 2020, citing irreconcilable differences. She requested that her legal surname revert to Clarkson and that no spousal support be awarded to Blackstock, citing a prenuptial agreement.

Divorce and Legal Disputes

The divorce proceedings were protracted and, at times, contentious. The settlement was finalized in 2022, but legal matters between the two continued into 2024. That year, Clarkson and Blackstock reached an agreement to settle lawsuits over claims that he had overcharged her millions of dollars while managing her career during their marriage.

Despite the legal challenges, both parties expressed intentions to prioritize their children’s well-being moving forward.

Career in Artist Management

Brandon Blackstock built a career in the music industry, representing high-profile country artists such as Blake Shelton and Rascal Flatts. His career began at Starstruck Entertainment, the company founded by his father, Narvel Blackstock.

Narvel Blackstock also had strong industry ties, having managed Clarkson before Brandon took over as her manager. Country music icon Reba McEntire, who was married to Narvel from 1989 to 2015, is the mother of Brandon’s half-brother, Shelby Blackstock.

Legacy in the Country Music Industry

Blackstock’s career was defined by his ability to navigate the competitive country music industry and foster long-term relationships with artists. His professional network extended across Nashville and beyond, cementing his reputation as a trusted manager in the genre.

Colleagues and artists he worked with over the years have credited him with a sharp business sense and a deep understanding of the artist’s perspective.

Public Reaction and Tributes

While immediate public tributes from artists and friends have been limited in the wake of the family’s privacy request, the news of Blackstock’s passing has prompted expressions of sympathy from fans of both his former clients and Kelly Clarkson. Industry insiders expect more formal statements to be made in the coming days as the country music community reflects on his life and work.

A Request for Privacy

The Blackstock family has reiterated their request for privacy as they grieve. “We thank you for your thoughts and prayers and ask everyone to respect the family’s privacy during this very difficult time,” their statement read.

Funeral and memorial service details have not yet been made public.

Remembering Brandon Blackstock

Brandon Blackstock’s life intertwined with both the entertainment industry and the public spotlight through his professional achievements and his marriage to Clarkson. Beyond headlines and legal disputes, those who knew him personally describe a man devoted to his children, loyal to his friends, and committed to his work in music.

As his family, friends, and colleagues mourn, his contributions to country music management and his role as a father and grandfather will be remembered as central parts of his legacy.