Brandon Blackstock, 48, Passes Away Following Cancer Diagnosis
Brandon Blackstock, renowned Hollywood talent manager and former husband of singer Kelly Clarkson, has died at the age of 48 following a more than three-year battle with cancer. His passing was confirmed by family members on August 7, 2025, who shared that he died peacefully, surrounded by loved ones. His illness had previously prompted Clarkson to postpone concert dates, including her Las Vegas residency, in order to care for their two children, River (11) and Remington (9)
Blackstock had four children in total, including Savannah and Seth from a previous marriage, and became a grandfather in recent years. His professional life was deeply rooted in the entertainment industry—he had managed top talents like Kelly Clarkson and Blake Shelton, and was also the stepson of country music legend Reba McEntire, who was married to his father, Narvel Blackstock, until 2015.
Brandon and Kelly first met in 2006 during rehearsals for the Academy of Country Music Awards but didn’t reconnect romantically until years later. After his divorce, they began dating and eventually married in October 2013. Their relationship inspired Clarkson’s emotional ballad “Piece by Piece,” which reflected the stability and love she felt during their marriage. Brandon also became her manager during that time, strengthening both their personal and professional bondsUnfortunately, the marriage ended in divorce in 2020, finalized two years later. Clarkson later reflected on the separation, saying it was a gradual and deeply considered decision. Despite the end of their relationship, Brandon’s impact on both her life and the entertainment world remained significant. He is remembered not only for his industry contributions but also as a father, grandfather, and a man who fought his illness with quiet strength.