Kelly Clarkson's ex-husband, Brandon Blackstock, dies at 48

(NewsNation) — Kelly Clarkson’s ex-husband and manager, Brandon Blackstock, has died of cancer. He was 48.   

“It is with great sadness that we share the news that Brandon Blackstock has passed away,” a rep for the family said in a statement. “Brandon bravely battled cancer for more than three years. He passed away peacefully and was surrounded by family. We thank you for your thoughts and prayers and ask everyone to respect the family’s privacy during this very difficult time.”  

News of Blackstock’s death comes a day after Clarkson postponed the remaining shows of her Las Vegas residency “to be fully present” for her children.   

NewsNation’s Paula Froelich first reported in April that Blackstock had been sick and that Clarkson took their children to see him.   

The “Piece by Piece” singer and Blackstock, who was the former stepson of Reba McEntire, got married in 2013 and broke up in 2020. After a contentious custody battle, Clarkson and Blackstock finalized their divorce in 2022.  

River Rose Blackstock, Kelly Clarkson, Remington Alexander Blackstock, Brandon Blackstock seen at STXfilm presents the World Premiere of 'Ugly Dolls' at Regal Cinema LA Live, Los Angeles, CA, USA - 27 April 2019 (Photo by Eric Charbonneau/Getty Images for STX Entertainment)

Blackstock is survived by his four kids. His daughter River Rose, 11, and son Remington Alexander, 9, were shared with Clarkson.  

The talent manager had two children from a previous marriage, Savannah and Seth, and became a grandfather in 2022, according to People magazine. 

This is a developing story.