Kelly Clarkson Heartbroken for Her Kids After Ex-Husband Brandon Blackstock’s Passing

Kelly Clarkson is leaning into her role as a mom more than ever following the heartbreaking loss of her ex-husband, Brandon Blackstock, who passed away on August 7 after quietly battling cancer for over three years.

A source close to the singer shared that Kelly has been deeply devastated—not just for herself, but especially for her two children, 11-year-old River and 9-year-old Remington. Even though Kelly and Brandon ended their marriage in 2020, she remained protective of him, knowing how important his presence was in her children’s lives.

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“Kelly handled everything with grace,” the source said. “She never stopped caring about Brandon as the father of her kids, even when things between them were difficult. It was clear earlier this year that he wasn’t doing well, and it’s been incredibly hard on her and the children.”

Despite a tough and emotional divorce, finalized in 2022, Kelly never let that affect how she spoke about Brandon to their kids. “The split was painful, and it was a hard chapter in her life. But she always prioritized her children’s bond with their dad,” the source added.

In interviews, Kelly has been open about how she tries to connect with her kids during emotional times. Speaking on the Angie Martinez IRL podcast in 2023, she shared a nightly ritual:

“Every night, I ask them, ‘Are you happy? And if not, what would make you happier?’ Sometimes they say, ‘I just wish Mommy and Daddy were still together.’ And I get that—I’m from a divorced family too. I tell them, ‘It’s okay to feel that way. But you are so deeply loved by both of us.’”

She’s also acknowledged the challenges of co-parenting. On her talk show, The Kelly Clarkson Show, she once admitted:

“It’s tough when you’re not together, even if you agree on the important stuff. But we both tried to make it about what’s best for the kids.”

Brandon, a former talent manager, had kept his illness private. His family confirmed his death with a heartfelt message:

“It is with great sadness that we share Brandon Blackstock has passed away. He bravely battled cancer for more than three years and passed peacefully, surrounded by family. We thank you for your thoughts and prayers and ask for privacy during this very difficult time.”

Kelly had hinted at his illness in early August when she announced a pause in her Las Vegas residency to focus on her children.

“I usually keep my personal life private,” she wrote on Instagram, “but this past year, my children’s father has been ill, and I need to be fully present for them right now. Thank you for your kindness and understanding.”

She also missed several tapings of her show earlier this year, with sources confirming it was due to Blackstock’s declining health.

Now, as she supports River and Remy through this loss, Kelly is showing once again the strength and care that have always defined her—not just as an artist, but as a mother.