Brandon Blackstock, the 48-year-old former business manager and ex-husband of singer Kelly Clarkson, has sadly passed away, with melanoma confirmed as the cause of death. Known for his prominent role in the entertainment industry, Blackstock’s death has sent shockwaves through Hollywood, particularly given his ties to one of its biggest stars.
The news was first reported by Silver Bow County Coroner Dan Hollis, who stated that Blackstock died peacefully at his home in Butte, Montana, on August 7, under hospice care and surrounded by family. “Brandon Blackstock passed away peacefully at his home in Butte, Montana on August 7th under hospice care surrounded by his family,” Hollis noted in a statement released on August 11. His representative later expressed sorrow over his passing, highlighting that Blackstock had “bravely battled cancer for more than three years.”
Kelly Clarkson has not yet publicly commented on Blackstock’s death, though she previously revealed the nature of his illness that led to the postponement of her Las Vegas residency. On August 6, she announced on Instagram, “Unfortunately, I need to postpone the remainder of the August Studio Session dates in Las Vegas. While I normally keep my personal life private, this past year, my children’s father has been ill, and at this moment, I need to be fully present for them.”
Clarkson and Blackstock, who married in October 2013, share two children: daughter River Rose, 11, and son Remington “Remy” Alexander, 9. Their marriage faced challenges, culminating in a high-profile divorce that was finalized in March 2022 after nearly seven years together. The split was fraught with accusations, including allegations that Blackstock mishandled Clarkson’s finances while working as her manager.
Amidst the personal turmoil, Clarkson has consistently shown commitment to co-parenting with Blackstock, striving to maintain a positive relationship for the sake of their children. “When she found out that he was sick, she remained protective of him for their sake,” a source told People Magazine. “Kelly has always tried to keep things classy… She’s been devastated for the kids.”
Prior to his marriage to Clarkson, Blackstock was married to Melissa Ashworth from 2001 to 2012, with whom he shares two children, daughter Savannah, 23, and son Seth, 18. The dynamics of Blackstock’s relationships have been scrutinized, especially considering his public persona and the high stakes involved in his divorce from Clarkson, who has remained one of America’s beloved music icons.
The impact of Blackstock’s death extends beyond his immediate family. For fans and followers, his passing marks the end of a complicated chapter in the lives of two public figures whose paths intertwined significantly in both personal and professional realms. As the entertainment industry continues to react to this tragic news, it raises questions about the legacies left behind by those who orbit the lives of famous celebrities.
In a broader context, Blackstock’s battle with melanoma also highlights the critical conversation surrounding cancer awareness and the importance of early detection. As public figures often influence societal attitudes, this tragic event may encourage discussions about skin cancer and the resources available for battling such health issues.
In conclusion, the loss of Brandon Blackstock is not just a personal tragedy for his family but also a moment that resonates within the entertainment community and among fans who have followed the lives of Clarkson and Blackstock. His legacy, though marred by controversy, is also marked by his role as a father and his connections to one of the music industry’s most celebrated talents.
