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.

Source: AP News – Brandon Blackstock, Kelly Clarkson’s ex-husband and former manager, dies at 48

The post Brandon Blackstock, Former Talent Manager and Ex-Husband of Kelly Clarkson, Dies at 48 appeared first on Journos News - Breaking News, World News, Top Stories, Todays Headlines and Flash Reports.

The 60th Academy of Country Music Awards delivered a night of powerful performances, heartfelt tributes, and major milestones — with Lainey Wilson once again leading the pack.

For the second year in a row, Wilson took home the evening’s biggest honor: Entertainer of the Year. That win capped off a sweeping night for the star, who also claimed Female Artist of the Year and Album of the Year.

“I really do have the best fans in the world,” Wilson said during her final speech, opening up about her ongoing battle with impostor syndrome. “Country music has given me more than I deserve.”

A Celebration of Country, Past and Present

The 2025 ACM Awards didn’t just spotlight today’s biggest stars — it honored country music’s rich legacy.

The show kicked off with a powerful 14-minute medley spanning six decades of country hits. Host Reba McEntire opened with Merle Haggard’s Okie from Muskogee, followed by Clint Black, Wynonna Judd, LeAnn Rimes, Little Big Town, and Dan + Shay, each performing a signature hit that defined a generation.

Ella Langley and Riley Green Shine as Newcomers

First-time nominees Ella Langley and Riley Green made their mark with “You Look Like You Love Me,” which won Single of the Year and Music Event of the Year. During their acceptance, both artists paid tribute to classic country storytelling that shaped their sound.

Alan Jackson Receives Inaugural Lifetime Achievement Award

One of the night’s most emotional moments came when Alan Jackson performed Remember When before receiving the first-ever ACM Alan Jackson Lifetime Achievement Award — named in his honor.

In a lighthearted moment, Jackson recalled a fan naming their dog after him, adding, “Having an award named after me? That’s not half bad either.”

Star-Studded Performances Light Up the Night

The show was packed with unforgettable performances. Highlights included:

• Wilson, McEntire, and Miranda Lambert debuting their new single Trailblazer
• Eric Church performing his fresh track Hands of Time
• Miranda Lambert and Ella Langley teaming up on Kerosene
• Blake Shelton channeling George Strait with Texas
• Chris Stapleton and his wife Morgane harmonizing on It Takes a Woman
• Zach Top, Kelsea Ballerini, and Cody Johnson keeping the energy high
• A surprise celebration for Shaboozey’s birthday, led by Jelly Roll
• A throwback finale featuring the Backstreet Boys and Rascal Flatts

Honoring Legends and Saying Goodbye

The Oak Ridge Boys presented Group of the Year to Old Dominion — a touching tribute following the 2024 passing of Oak Ridge’s Joe Bonsall.

In another emotional moment, McEntire led a sing-along of Me and Bobby McGee in honor of the late Kris Kristofferson.

More Big Wins

• Male Artist of the Year: Chris Stapleton
• Duo of the Year: Brooks & Dunn
• ACM Triple Crown Award: Keith Urban, after surprise performances of Stupid Boy (by Megan Moroney) and Blue Ain’t Your Color (by Stapleton)

Urban’s Triple Crown win marks the first on-stage presentation of the award since Carrie Underwood received it in 2010.

The 60th ACM Awards once again struck a perfect balance — lifting up rising stars while honoring the icons who paved the way. It was a night filled with heart, history, and high notes.

The event streamed live on Prime Video and the Amazon Music Twitch channel, with no Prime membership required.

Source: AP News – Lainey Wilson rules the 2025 Academy of Country Music Awards once again, Alan Jackson is honored

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