Who Is Brandon Blackstock? Everything to know about Kelly Clarkson’s ex‑husband

Brandon Blackstock has long been a figure behind the scenes, music manager, former husband of Kelly Clarkson, and, more recently, the unwitting reason behind the postponement of Clarkson’s Las Vegas residency. With his undisclosed illness prompting a delay in performances and raising public concern, now is the moment to understand who Brandon Blackstock truly is, and why it matters to both fans and celebrity watchers alike.

Early Life & Music Management Career

Born on December 16, 1976, in Fort Worth, Texas, Brandon Blackstock is an accomplished music manager with credits managing top country artists like Rascal Flatts, Blake Shelton, and Carly Pearce . He is also the son of industry veteran Narvel Blackstock, founder of management firm Starstruck, and stepson to legendary country star Reba McEntire, with whom he grew up closely connected.

Relationship With Kelly Clarkson

Brandon and Kelly Clarkson first crossed paths in 2006 during a rehearsal for the Academy of Country Music Awards, while Brandon was working as Rascal Flatts’ tour manager . Their romance officially began in 2012, after reconnecting at the Super Bowl, and culminated in a 2013 wedding at Blackberry Farm in Tennessee.

Together, they had two children: daughter River Rose (born June 2014) and son Remington “Remy” Alexander (born April 2016). However, the marriage ended in June 2020 when Clarkson filed for divorce; the divorce was finalized in March 2022, with Clarkson given primary custody of their children. The split, and particularly its public and legal fallout, has continued to influence Clarkson’s personal and professional life.

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The Illness That Moved Clarkson’s Stage

In August 2025, Kelly Clarkson publicly revealed that Brandon Blackstock has been dealing with a serious undisclosed illness. She postponed the remaining shows of her Las Vegas Studio Sessions residency to prioritize supporting their children during this challenging time. This marked the second cancellation of her residency, earlier disruptions were due to vocal strain, but this recent personal revelation brought intense public and fan-focused empathy.

Clarkson expressed deep gratitude to her fans for understanding, while numerous celebrities also voiced support as she navigated the emotional terrain of balancing her career, co-parenting, and family health crises.