Kelly Clarkson is mourning the loss of her ex-husband, Brandon Blackstock, who has died at the age of 48 following a private battle with cancer.

Blackstock, a longtime music manager and former executive, passed away peacefully surrounded by loved ones after quietly fighting cancer for more than three years. The news comes just days after Clarkson publicly disclosed for the first time that Blackstock had been seriously ill — a revelation she made while announcing the sudden postponement of her remaining August “Chemistry: An Intimate Night with Kelly Clarkson” Las Vegas residency dates.

In an emotional Instagram message posted on August 6, Clarkson wrote:
“I'm heartbroken to share that I need to postpone my remaining Vegas shows this month. My children’s father has been very ill, and our family needs this time together. Thank you for understanding.”

It was the first time she had spoken publicly about Blackstock’s illness, making the timing of his passing all the more devastating.

Clarkson and Blackstock were married for nearly seven years before finalizing their divorce in 2022. They share two children — River Rose and Remington Alexander. Blackstock also had two older children from a previous marriage.

Though their relationship ended amid a highly publicized legal battle, Clarkson has previously acknowledged the important role Blackstock played in her life and career during their time together, as both a partner and manager.

At this time, the Blackstock family has asked for privacy as they grieve this enormous loss. No further public statement has been made by Clarkson.

Brandon Blackstock is survived by his four children and countless colleagues and friends from across the entertainment industry.