The Tragic Truth: Did Kelly Clarkson's Ex-Husband Pass Away? Inside Brandon Blackstock's Final Years

The question surrounding the well-being of Kelly Clarkson’s ex-husband, Brandon Blackstock, has tragically been answered. As of the most recent updates this December 2025, it is confirmed that the music manager and former husband of the pop superstar has passed away at the age of 48, following a private, multi-year health battle. The news, which was shared publicly by his family, has brought a somber close to a chapter that was previously dominated by a high-profile divorce and legal disputes, shifting the focus to his life, career, and enduring legacy as a father of four.

The confirmation of Brandon Blackstock's death has prompted an outpouring of public curiosity, not only regarding the cause but also about the details of his life away from the spotlight of his famous ex-wife. Blackstock, a respected figure in the country music industry, spent his final years focusing on his Montana ranch and his children, a stark contrast to the intense media scrutiny he faced during the dissolution of his marriage to Kelly Clarkson. His passing marks a poignant moment for his family, including his four children, as they remember the man behind the headlines.

Brandon Blackstock: A Complete Biography and Family Profile

Brandon Blackstock was a notable American talent manager, television producer, and businessman whose life was deeply rooted in the country music industry.

• The Enduring Legacy Of Haylor 5 Shocking Facts About Harry Styles And Taylor Swifts Relationship 10 Years Later Sf662

• Full Name: Narvel Brandon Blackstock
• Date of Birth: December 16, 1976
• Age at Passing: 48
• Place of Birth: Fort Worth, Texas, USA
• Cause of Death: Melanoma (a form of skin cancer)
• Date of Passing: August 7
• Parents: Narvel Blackstock (Father) and Elisa Gayle Ritter (Mother)
• Stepparent: Reba McEntire (Former Stepmother)
• Career: Talent Manager, Television Producer, Businessman, and Pilot. He notably managed the careers of country stars, including Blake Shelton and his ex-wife, Kelly Clarkson.
• Estimated Net Worth: Approximately $10 million at the time of his death.
• First Marriage: Melissa Ashworth (2001–2012)
• Children from First Marriage: Savannah Blackstock (born 2002) and Seth Blackstock (born 2006)
• Second Marriage: Kelly Clarkson (2013–2022)
• Children from Second Marriage: River Rose Blackstock (daughter) and Remington Alexander Blackstock (son)

The Confirmed Cause of Death: Brandon Blackstock's Battle with Melanoma

The speculation surrounding Brandon Blackstock’s health ended with the family’s statement confirming his passing was due to a lengthy and courageous battle with cancer. Specific reports later revealed that he succumbed to melanoma, an aggressive form of skin cancer.

A Private, Three-Year Health Struggle

Blackstock reportedly battled the disease for approximately three years, keeping his health struggles largely private. This aligns with his preference for a life away from the public eye, particularly after his divorce from Kelly Clarkson was finalized. The talent manager passed away peacefully at his home in Butte, Montana, where he had retreated to focus on his personal life and ranching business. He was under hospice care and surrounded by his family in his final moments.

The Impact on Family and Children

The death of Brandon Blackstock leaves a significant void for his four children. He was known to be a devoted father to his two children from his first marriage, Savannah and Seth, and his two younger children with Kelly Clarkson, River Rose and Remington Alexander. The family's privacy has been respected during this difficult time, with Kelly Clarkson reportedly remaining protective of her ex-husband and the father of her children, despite their tumultuous divorce proceedings.

• Shania Twains Bold Statement Why The Star Chose Nude Photoshoots At 57 Qf9cg

Inside the Bitter Divorce and Financial Settlement with Kelly Clarkson

Before his passing, Brandon Blackstock was perhaps most famous for his marriage and subsequent high-stakes divorce from Kelly Clarkson. The split, which began in June 2020, was finalized in March 2022 and was characterized by lengthy legal battles over finances and assets, including their shared Montana ranch.

The Final Divorce Settlement Breakdown

The divorce settlement revealed several significant financial details that dominated headlines for months.

• Lump Sum Payment: Kelly Clarkson was ordered to pay Brandon Blackstock a one-time, tax-free lump sum of $1,326,161.
• Spousal Support: Clarkson was initially required to pay a substantial amount of spousal support, though the payments were for a limited duration and later reduced. The initial figure was reported to be $115,000 per month.
• Child Support: Clarkson was also ordered to pay $45,601 per month in child support for River Rose and Remington Alexander.
• Custody: Kelly Clarkson was granted primary physical custody of their two children, while Blackstock was granted joint legal custody and visitation rights.

The financial arrangements were a clear point of contention, with Blackstock arguing for a greater share of assets, particularly the Montana property where he chose to reside and pursue his passion for ranching. The settlement ultimately allowed him to remain on the property for a limited time, marking his commitment to a life outside of the entertainment industry.

• The Surprise Vegas Wedding And Shared Grief 5 Shocking Details Of John Schneider And Dee Dee Sorvinos Whirlwind Romance Ohirf

Brandon Blackstock's Career and Legacy in Music Management

While often overshadowed by his relationship with Kelly Clarkson, Brandon Blackstock had a successful career as a talent manager, following in the footsteps of his father, Narvel Blackstock, who was also a prominent manager.

Managing Top Country Artists

Blackstock was instrumental in managing the careers of several high-profile country music artists. His most notable client outside of Clarkson was country superstar Blake Shelton. His work in Nashville established him as a respected figure long before his marriage to the American Idol winner. He was known for his keen business sense and ability to navigate the complex music industry landscape.

The Starstruck Management Dispute

A separate legal battle also arose during the divorce proceedings involving his father’s company, Starstruck Management Group, which claimed Blackstock owed them millions in commissions. This legal dispute was ultimately settled, but it further highlighted the financial complexities tied to his career. Blackstock's career trajectory, from managing A-list talent to becoming a rancher and pilot in Montana, illustrates a life that sought both professional success and, eventually, a quiet, private existence.

The death of Brandon Blackstock is a reminder of the fragility of life and brings a definitive end to the public's intense focus on the dramatic divorce. His passing shifts the narrative from legal battles to the personal tragedy of a father and son who lost his life too soon to a serious illness. The family, including Kelly Clarkson, now navigates this new reality while focusing on the well-being of the children they share.