The entertainment world is mourning the loss of Brandon Blackstock—talent manager, father, and beloved family member—who passed away at the age of 48 after a courageous three-year battle with cancer.
Brandon was well known as Kelly Clarkson’s ex-husband and the father of her two children, River (11) and Remington (9). He was also a proud dad to two adult children, Savannah and Seth, from a previous marriage, and became a grandfather in 2022 when Savannah welcomed her son, Lake.
Brandon was the stepson of country music legend Reba McEntire, who was married to his father, Narvel Blackstock, from 1989 to 2015.
A Family’s Heartfelt Statement
In a statement shared with PEOPLE, a family representative confirmed his passing and expressed their gratitude for the outpouring of love:
“It is with great sadness that we share the news that Brandon Blackstock has passed away. Brandon bravely battled cancer for more than three years. He passed away peacefully, surrounded by family. We thank you for your thoughts and prayers and ask for privacy during this very difficult time.”
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Brandon had been fighting melanoma and continued to be involved in his children’s lives even after a very public divorce from Clarkson, finalized in 2022. Though their split was difficult, sources shared that Clarkson continued to care for him in his final years, balancing her demanding career with supporting the father of her children.
From Love Story to Loss
Clarkson and Blackstock first met in 2006 at a rehearsal for the Academy of Country Music Awards, where Brandon was working as Rascal Flatts’ tour manager. They reconnected six years later at the Super Bowl, quickly fell in love, and married in 2013. During their marriage, Brandon managed both Clarkson and Blake Shelton, solidifying his reputation in the industry.
Tributes From Loved Ones
Many who knew Brandon have spoken out to honor him. His half-brother Shelby, Reba’s only biological son, posted a moving tribute on Instagram:
“Yesterday, we lost a brother, a father, a grandfather, and a son. Brandon Blackstock was an irreplaceable part of our family—funny, bright, and full of life—and he will be deeply missed… I’ll always feel your presence, and I’ll always love you.”
In true sibling fashion, Shelby even added a lighthearted note, promising to do everything “a little better” and “far more handsome” than his big brother ever could—something Brandon surely would have laughed at.
Reba also left a short but heartfelt comment on Shelby’s post, saying simply:
“Very well said, Shelby. Yes, we will miss him so much.”
A Bond Beyond Blood
Although technically her stepson, Reba has often spoken about loving Brandon “like he’s my blood.” She married his father when Brandon was just 13, helping raise him for over two decades. In a 2021 interview, she shared how proud she was of the man he became.
Brandon’s passing is an immeasurable loss to his family, friends, and the countless people whose lives he touched. While the grief is deep, the stories, laughter, and love he left behind will continue to live on.