Brandon Blackstock, a well-known talent manager and the former husband of singer Kelly Clarkson, is a name closely linked not only to the entertainment world but also to a narrative filled with love, struggle, and loss. This blog dives into key facts about Brandon’s life, his family connections, his battle with cancer, and the story behind his divorce from Clarkson, along with answers to common questions.
Brandon Blackstock‘s Background and Family Connections
Brandon was born into an entertainment-oriented family as the son of Narvel Blackstock, a renowned music manager. He is also the stepson of country music legend Reba McEntire from his father’s marriage to her. This familial link brings notable curiosity about “Reba McEntire’s son,” which refers to Brandon in his stepfather role. His siblings include Shelby Blackstock, another public figure in racing.
Brandon’s first marriage was to Melissa Ashworth, with whom he had two children—Savannah and Seth. This marriage lasted over a decade before they separated. Later, Brandon married Kelly Clarkson in 2013 after meeting her in 2012. Together, Brandon and Kelly had two children: River Rose (born 2014) and Remington “Remy” Alexander (born 2016).
Brandon Blackstock’s Career and Role in Entertainment
Professionally, Brandon was a talent manager with a significant role at Starstruck Entertainment, the management company founded by his father, Narvel. He managed famous country stars like Blake Shelton, making his mark behind the scenes of the music industry.
The Cancer Battle and Cause of Death
Brandon Blackstock’s life took a tragic turn when he was diagnosed with melanoma, a severe and aggressive type of skin cancer. Despite a valiant fight spanning over three years, he passed away peacefully in August 2025 with his family by his side. Melanoma’s quick metastasis makes it a particularly lethal cancer, underscoring the importance of awareness and early detection.
Kelly Clarkson’s Divorce and Family Life
Kelly Clarkson and Brandon Blackstock’s marriage faced challenges, culminating in Kelly filing for divorce in June 2020, citing irreconcilable differences. The intersection of their personal and professional lives—with Brandon managing Kelly’s career—added complexity to their relationship. The divorce was finalized in 2022, after which Kelly took primary custody of their children, managing co-parenting with Brandon.
The divorce and Brandon’s illness have deeply affected their family dynamics, with Kelly postponing professional commitments to prioritize her children during Brandon’s health decline.
FAQs on Brandon Blackstock, Kelly Clarkson, and Related Topics
Q: Who is Brandon Blackstock related to in the entertainment industry?
A: Brandon is the son of music manager Narvel Blackstock and stepson of country music star Reba McEntire.
Q: What type of cancer did Brandon Blackstock have?
A: Brandon battled melanoma, an aggressive form of skin cancer.
Q: When did Brandon Blackstock pass away?
A: He died peacefully in August 2025 after a private battle with melanoma.
Q: Why did Kelly Clarkson and Brandon Blackstock get divorced?
A: Kelly filed for divorce citing irreconcilable differences, with challenges arising partly from mixing personal and professional roles.
Q: How many children do Kelly Clarkson and Brandon Blackstock have together?
A: They have two children—River Rose and Remington Alexander.
Q: Did Brandon Blackstock have children from a previous marriage?
A: Yes, he has two children, Savannah and Seth, from his marriage to Melissa Ashworth.
Q: Who is Melissa Ashworth?
A: She is Brandon Blackstock’s first wife and mother of his two eldest children.
Q: What is Kelly Clarkson’s current custody arrangement?
A: Kelly Clarkson has primary custody of their children, with Brandon having visitation rights.
Q: Is Shelby Blackstock related to Brandon?
A: Yes, Shelby Blackstock is Brandon’s brother.
Q: What is Brandon Blackstock’s net worth?
A: Brandon Blackstock was a successful talent manager, though exact net worth figures vary in public reports.