Kelly Clarkson is reportedly “devastated” for her children following the death of her ex-husband, Brandon Blackstock.
A source shared that upon learning of his illness, Clarkson continued to shield him for the sake of their children. After Blackstock’s passing on Thursday, the “American Idol” winner noted that he “always tried to make things classy.”
Earlier this year, it was disclosed that Brandon’s health was declining. The source emphasized how heartbroken she is for her kids.
Brandon Blackstock passed away at the age of 48 after battling melanoma, and he and Clarkson went through a challenging divorce in 2022. Despite their difficulties, she assisted him during his final moments.
“It’s so tiring and so sad…” the source relayed exclusively to Page Six. “Kelly not only cared for Brandon, but she worked hard too. Even with their tough divorce, he was still a man she loved and the father of her children.”
Sources described their divorce as “incredibly difficult” for Clarkson. The hitmaker aimed for her children to have the best relationship possible with their father.
A family representative confirmed to Page Six on Thursday that Blackstock, who was Clarkson’s former manager and the son-in-law of Leva Mantea, had died.
“It’s extremely saddening to share that Brandon Blackstock has passed away,” a family spokesperson stated. “He bravely fought cancer for over three years and passed peacefully surrounded by family. We appreciate your thoughts and prayers and ask for privacy during this very challenging time.”
The couple married in 2013 and finalized their divorce in 2022. They welcomed their daughter, River Rose, in 2014, and their son, Remington, in 2016. Blackstock also has two older children from his first marriage.
Clarkson and Blackstock had a complicated relationship. She once mentioned that her kids often ask if she still loves him, to which she replied, “No, I don’t know if that’s going to go away,” during a 2023 podcast appearance.

