The music world is mourning the loss of Brandon Blackstock, a well-known talent manager whose life was deeply tied to both country and pop music. Blackstock, 48, passed away on August 7, 2025, in Montana following a quiet, years-long battle with cancer.
A representative for the family confirmed the heartbreaking news in a statement to PEOPLE:
“It is with great sadness that we share the news that Brandon Blackstock has passed away. 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.”
A Family Man First
While much of the public knew him as Kelly Clarkson’s former husband and Reba McEntire’s former stepson, those close to him remember Blackstock first and foremost as a father. He leaves behind four children: River (11) and Remington (9), whom he shared with Clarkson, as well as Savannah and Seth from his first marriage. In 2022, he also became a grandfather when Savannah welcomed her son, Lake.
Just last year, Blackstock was seen at the Houston Rodeo with his children, his brother Shelby, and his former stepmother Reba — a reminder of the deep and enduring bonds within the blended Blackstock family.
Kelly Clarkson’s Tribute Through Action
News of Blackstock’s passing came just one day after Clarkson announced she was postponing her Las Vegas residency to prioritize her children. Her heartfelt message now carries an even deeper resonance:
“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 wrote.
The couple married in October 2013 after reconnecting at the Super Bowl years earlier. Their love story inspired some of Clarkson’s most personal music, including her 2015 hit “Piece By Piece,” which she credited to the sense of security she felt in their marriage at the time.
A Life Surrounded by Music
Born into a family at the heart of the entertainment industry, Blackstock was the son of Narvel Blackstock, the longtime manager of Reba McEntire, who was married to Narvel for 26 years. Brandon’s career followed a similar path: he became a talent manager himself, most notably representing Blake Shelton in addition to working with Clarkson.
Despite his connections to fame, Blackstock often stayed behind the scenes. Friends describe him as someone who preferred laughter and quiet moments with family over the spotlight.
Remembering Brandon
Brandon Blackstock’s passing is not just the loss of a name tied to music royalty — it is the loss of a man who loved deeply, worked passionately, and faced his final chapter with grace.
His story, from a Texas upbringing to building a career at the crossroads of country and pop, will be remembered not only through the headlines but through the lives of the children and family he cherished.
A life of family, music, and love — gone too soon, but never forgotten.
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