Brandon Blackstock, Renowned Talent Manager and Former Husband of Kelly Clarkson, Dies at 48 After Cancer Battle
Remembering Brandon Blackstock: Celebrated Talent Manager and Former Husband of Kelly Clarkson Dies at 48
Brandon Blackstock, a highly respected talent manager, former husband of singer Kelly Clarkson, and a familiar name in the country music industry, has died at the age of 48 after a courageous three-year battle with cancer. His passing marks the loss of a man whose life was deeply intertwined with both the entertainment world and his beloved family, leaving behind a legacy of professional excellence, personal resilience, and cherished memories.
Born into a family rooted in music and performance, Brandon was the son of music manager Narvel Blackstock and former model Elisa Gayle Ritter. He was also the former stepson of country music legend Reba McEntire, a connection that gave him an intimate view of the entertainment industry from an early age. This background paved the way for his career in talent management, where his keen business acumen and personable nature helped him thrive.
Blackstock’s professional achievements were most notably tied to his work with Grammy-winning country star Blake Shelton, whom he guided through key stages of his career. Known in industry circles for his integrity, strategic vision, and hands-on management style, Brandon built lasting relationships with the artists he worked with, always striving to balance their artistic vision with long-term career growth.
On a personal level, Brandon was perhaps most widely recognized for his marriage to Kelly Clarkson, with whom he shared two children, River Rose and Remington Alexander. Although their marriage ended in divorce in 2020, both maintained their shared devotion to their children. In addition to River and Remington, Brandon was a proud father to his older children, Savannah and Seth, from a previous relationship. In recent years, he also embraced the role of grandfather, a title he wore with joy and pride.
Brandon’s battle with cancer was marked by extraordinary courage and dignity. Friends and family say he remained optimistic even during the most difficult moments, focusing his energy on making memories with his loved ones and continuing to support the artists and colleagues who meant so much to him.
Those who knew him best remember Brandon as a man of loyalty, humor, and heart — someone who worked hard, loved deeply, and took immense pride in his family. His passing leaves an irreplaceable void not only in the lives of his four children and one grandchild but also in the music community, where his influence and friendships ran deep.
A private memorial service will be held for close family and friends, with plans for a public celebration of life at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family has requested donations be made to cancer research organizations, a cause that became deeply personal to Brandon during his illness.
Brandon Blackstock’s story is one of passion, perseverance, and love — a life that bridged the glitz of the entertainment industry and the grounding joy of family. Though his time was cut short, the memories he created, the careers he helped shape, and the love he gave so freely will ensure his legacy lives on for generations to come.