The world watched as Kelly Clarkson stepped out in public for the first time since the sad passing of her ex-husband, Brandon Blackstock. She was spotted at LAX airport this past Saturday, August 23rd. The Daily Mail shared photos showing Clarkson, 43, dressed completely in black. She wore dark sunglasses, comfortable sweatpants, and a wide-brimmed hat as she walked from her car.
News broke earlier this month that Brandon Blackstock, 48, had lost his private battle with cancer on August 7th. His family released a statement to Us Weekly, sharing their grief. "It’s with great sadness we announce Brandon Blackstock’s passing," the statement read. "Brandon bravely fought cancer for over three years. He died peacefully, surrounded by his family. We appreciate your thoughts and prayers, and ask everyone to respect our family’s privacy during this tough time."
Just one day before Brandon’s death, Kelly had announced a pause in her Las Vegas residency. She posted on Instagram on August 6th, explaining her decision was to be there for her two children: River, 11, and Remington, 9. "Sadly, I need to postpone the rest of my August Studio Session dates in Las Vegas," she wrote. "Normally, I keep my private life to myself. However, this past year, my children’s father has been sick. Right now, I need to be fully present for them. I am truly sorry to everyone who bought tickets for these shows. I am very thankful for your kindness, generosity, and understanding."
At that time, Kelly kept quiet about the exact illness. Later, on August 11th, Silver Bow County coroner Dan Hollis confirmed the cause of death to Us Weekly. He stated that Brandon Blackstock died from melanoma, a natural passing. Kelly and Brandon got married in 2013. During their marriage, Brandon also worked as her music manager. Kelly filed for divorce in 2020, and the process took two years to finalize after a long legal fight.
Kelly hasn’t spoken publicly about Brandon’s death yet. However, her colleague from The Voice, Carson Daly, recently spoke to Us Weekly. He talked about how the show’s team has rallied around both Kelly and Reba McEntire during this difficult family loss. Reba, 70, was married to Brandon’s father, Narvel Blackstock, from 1989 to 2015.
Daly shared his feelings with Us Weekly on Monday, August 18th, at the opening night of Jeff Ross: Take a Banana for the Ride. "It’s been a tough time," he said. "We all knew Brandon well, and we’re like a family here. We’re just sending them our prayers and support. It’s a truly awful situation."
Beyond River and Remington, Brandon was also a father to Savannah, 23, and Seth, 18, from his earlier marriage to Melissa Ashworth. Savannah shared a truly touching message about her late father on Instagram on Tuesday, August 19th. "My dad always made my dreams come true," she wrote. "No matter how big or far-fetched they were, he always found a way. He didn’t just make my dreams happen; he chased them right alongside me. He traveled all over the world, always my biggest cheerleader. He was my best friend, my voice of reason, and my favorite call every single day."
Savannah also mentioned that she and her father found a "new path" in their relationship through shared faith. "He always loved the Lord," she added. "But six months ago, he began seeking Him more deeply. He was hungry for the Word, and we explored it together. He gave me more than I could ever ask for or deserve in my life. But twelve days ago, he blessed me with the most precious gift: knowing he is now in Heaven with our Savior."
She finished her heartfelt post with a touching goodbye: "I’ve lost a piece of my heart and my favorite cowboy, but Heaven gained an angel. I am so thankful for the time we had, and I cannot wait for eternity. I love you, daddy, and I will miss you forever. Enjoy your ranch up there; God designed it with your heart’s desires in mind. ❤️"