Quick Facts on Brandon Blackstock, Kelly Clarkson's Recently Deceased Ex-Husband and How He is Connected to Reba McEntire

The sudden death of Brandon Blackstock has sent shockwaves through the music industry and his family. The 48-year-old talent manager, once married to the Grammy-winning singer Kelly Clarkson, died after a three-year battle with cancer. His passing highlights complex connections within country and pop music worlds, especially through his ties to Reba McEntire, a country music icon and former stepmother. But just what do we know of the man himself?

Brandon Blackstock was born on 16 December 1976 in Fort Worth, Texas. His career was rooted in talent management, mainly working in Nashville. He served as an executive at Starstruck Entertainment, a company owned by his father, Narvel Blackstock, which was established in 1988. Brandon was involved in managing notable artists like Blake Shelton and was an executive producer on 'The Kelly Clarkson Show' from 2019 to 2020.

He married Kelly Clarkson in Tennessee in 2013, after they began dating in 2012. The couple had two children together before Clarkson filed for divorce in 2020, citing 'irreconcilable differences'. Brandon also had two children from a previous marriage. His death was announced on Thursday, 7 August 2025, by Starstruck Entertainment.

Recently, Kelly Clarkson postponed her Las Vegas residency, which was scheduled to run through November. She explained her decision publicly, citing the need to be with her children during this difficult time. Clarkson had been scheduled to perform at the Colosseum at Caesars Palace, but the shows were delayed to focus on her family.

Brandon Blackstock's Family and His Connection to Reba McEntire

Brandon's father, Narvel Blackstock, was a well-known talent manager who managed stars such as Blake Shelton and Reba McEntire. Narvel and Reba were married from 1989 until their separation in 2015, after 26 years of marriage. During their union, Reba McEntire was often called Brandon Blackstock's 'stepmother', and she has publicly expressed affection for him even after her divorce.

Reba McEntire has referred to Brandon as her 'son forever', highlighting the close bond he maintained with her. Despite the divorce, McEntire maintained a supportive relationship with Brandon and his children. In 2018, she told People magazine she considered Brandon's children her grandchildren, though she admitted they were often busy and scattered across the country.

During interviews, she expressed ongoing love and support, describing Brandon as someone she has loved for many years.

The Impact of Brandon Blackstock's Passing

His death marks the end of a notable career in the entertainment industry, alongside personal ties to some of country music's most recognised figures. Clarkson's public statements reflected her grief, and she expressed her desire to prioritise her family during this period. His passing also brings renewed attention to his family connections, especially his relationship with Reba McEntire. His legacy will be remembered through the artists he managed and the family connections he nurtured.

Public Response

Fans have been supportive in the wake of Blackstock's Passing, sending his loved ones many messages of support online through social media. On Kelly Clarkson's announcement, many fans shared messages of commiseration, saying 'Kudos to you for doing right by your family and just ignoring the noise. My sincerest condolences. Grief is a strange thing and is often so different for each person experiencing it. You and your kiddos are in my thoughts and prayers. Do what you need to do for them at this time... and for yourself.'