Talent manager Brandon Blackstock has passed away aged 48 after a prolonged fight with cancer spanning over three years.
The former spouse of singer Kelly Clarkson died peacefully whilst in the company of relatives, according to a family representative.
“It is with great sadness that we share the news that Brandon Blackstock has passed away,” the family’s spokesperson stated. “Brandon bravely battled cancer for more than three years.
“He passed away peacefully and was surrounded by family. We thank you for your thoughts and prayers and ask everyone to respect the family’s privacy during this very difficult time.”
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The announcement emerged on Thursday evening, mere hours following Clarkson’s decision to cancel her remaining August performances in Las Vegas.
The American Idol winner revealed on Wednesday that she needed to cancel her Studio Session performances to support her family during a difficult period.
In an Instagram post to supporters, she disclosed that her children’s father had been unwell.
“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,” Clarkson wrote.
The three-time Grammy recipient expressed regret to ticket holders, stating she was “sincerely sorry to everyone who bought tickets to the shows.”
She added her appreciation for fans’ understanding: “I so appreciate your grace, kindness and understanding.”
The revelation marked a rare public acknowledgement of personal matters from the typically private performer.
Blackstock leaves behind four children, including River Rose, aged 10, and Remington Alexander, aged 8, whom he shared with Clarkson.
He was also father to two children from an earlier relationship and had become a grandfather in 2022 when his eldest daughter welcomed a son.
The music industry figure had notable family connections beyond his marriage to Clarkson.
His father, Narvel Blackstock, was previously wed to country music star Reba McEntire, making her Brandon’s former stepmother.
Blackstock and Clarkson’s marriage lasted nearly seven years before their separation in 2020.
The news of his illness had not been publicly disclosed until Clarkson’s announcement on Wednesday, making the revelation of his death particularly unexpected for fans and the entertainment community.
Blackstock worked as a talent manager throughout his career in the entertainment industry. His professional life intersected with his personal relationships, as he managed several artists whilst building his family life.
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The couple’s relationship began before Clarkson’s 2013 wedding to the music executive. Their union produced two children before concluding with their 2020 split after almost seven years of marriage.
It is understood Blackstock died on Thursday evening. The timing follows Wednesday’s unexpected cancellation of Clarkson’s Las Vegas performances, when she first publicly acknowledged her ex-husband’s health struggles.