VERY SAD NEWS: Just Now in Fort Worth, Texas, USA — Kelly Clarkson Breaks Down as She Confirms the Death of Her Ex-Husband Brandon Blackstock at Age 48…
On August 7, 2025, the music world fell into stunned silence as Kelly Clarkson—through tear-filled eyes and a trembling voice—confirmed the tragic death of her former husband, Brandon Blackstock, at just 48 years old.
In a heartfelt public statement released late that evening, Clarkson spoke not as a pop superstar or TV host, but as a grieving friend and co-parent still reeling from the shock of finality.
“Ten hours before Brandon passed,” she revealed softly, “he made three final requests to me. And I promised I would honor every single one of them. What he asked—what he needed—wasn’t for himself. It was for the kids, for his family, and for peace.”
Though Clarkson chose to keep the specifics of those requests private—for now—her words left fans and friends alike in tears, as social media flooded with prayers, condolences, and stunned messages of remembrance.
Brandon Blackstock, a successful talent manager known for guiding the careers of some of country music’s brightest stars—including Blake Shelton—had long remained a quiet force in the entertainment industry. But to Clarkson, he was more than a colleague or co-parent. He was, at one time, her person. The father of her two children, River Rose and Remington. A man whose story was deeply intertwined with hers, even after their marriage ended in 2021.
“He was complicated,” Clarkson said gently. “But he loved deeply. And more than anything, he loved those kids.”
Details surrounding Brandon’s passing remain closely guarded by the family. What has been confirmed is that he died peacefully at a private residence in Fort Worth, Texas, with close family members by his side. Emergency services were contacted around 4 a.m., but he was pronounced deceased before he could be transported.
For Clarkson, who recently returned from a European tour and had spoken candidly in interviews about maintaining a respectful relationship with Blackstock for the sake of their children, the loss is profound and deeply personal.
“No one expects to lose someone that young,” a source close to Clarkson shared. “They had their differences, yes—but there was always a bond. Always a quiet understanding.”
In recent years, the pair had found a new rhythm in co-parenting. Blackstock had chosen a quieter life away from the spotlight following their divorce, residing on his ranch outside of Fort Worth. Clarkson, meanwhile, channeled her energy into new music, her Emmy-winning daytime talk show, and creating a grounded life for River and Remy.
Now, she finds herself tasked with guiding them through a grief no child should ever have to carry.
“He wanted them to grow up knowing they were loved,” Clarkson said. “And I’ll make sure they never forget that.”
As tributes pour in from industry colleagues, friends, and fans around the globe, Brandon Blackstock’s life is being remembered not only for his work in entertainment—but for the quiet strength he brought to those he loved most.
He is survived by his two children with Kelly Clarkson, as well as his two older children from a previous marriage. The family has asked for privacy during this incredibly difficult time.
Brandon was 48 years old.
A full memorial statement and service details are expected in the coming days. Until then, a single image remains etched in the public memory: Kelly Clarkson, her voice shaking, eyes full of tears—not just mourning the man she once loved, but honoring the final promise she made before the end.