Brandon Blackstock, Ex-Husband of Kelly Clarkson, Dies at 48
Fort Worth, Texas – Brandon Blackstock, a prominent figure in the entertainment world and the former husband and manager of superstar Kelly Clarkson, has passed away at the age of 48. The news of his death follows a private and courageous three-year battle with cancer.
Blackstock, who was the son of prominent music manager Narvel Blackstock and the former stepson of country music legend Reba McEntire, died peacefully on August 7, 2025. His passing was announced shortly after Kelly Clarkson postponed her Las Vegas residency, citing a need to support her children during a family illness.
Born on December 16, 1976, in Fort Worth, Texas, Brandon Blackstock carved out a significant career in the music industry. He followed in his father's footsteps, working at Starstruck Entertainment and managing the careers of several top country artists, including Blake Shelton and Rascal Flatts. He also managed Kelly Clarkson, a professional relationship that blossomed into a personal one.
Blackstock's personal life was also a subject of public interest. He was first married to Melissa Ashworth, with whom he had two children, Savannah and Seth. After their divorce, he began a relationship with Kelly Clarkson. The couple married in 2013 and had two children together, River Rose and Remington Alexander. Their divorce was finalized in 2022 after a widely publicized process.
In the years leading up to his death, Blackstock stepped away from the entertainment industry to pursue a life as a rancher in Montana. Despite his professional achievements and public life, his battle with cancer remained a private matter. He is survived by his children, his mother, his father, and his extended family.
The entertainment community and fans have shared an outpouring of condolences, remembering Blackstock for his contributions to the music industry and his personal legacy.
