Brandon Blackstock — music manager, father of four, and former husband to Kelly Clarkson — has died at 48 after a private, three-year battle with cancer. He passed away surrounded by family, who said he was “at peace” in his final moments.

Born into country music royalty, Brandon was the son of music manager Narvel Blackstock and later the stepson of Reba McEntire. Growing up in the industry’s inner circle, he built a career behind the scenes, managing talent and shaping careers rather than seeking the spotlight himself.

In 2006, he met Kelly Clarkson at an Academy of Country Music Awards rehearsal. Years later, they reconnected at the Super Bowl, married in 2013, and had two children, River and Remington. For a time, their relationship seemed like a modern fairy tale, inspiring Clarkson’s heartfelt ballad “Piece By Piece.”

However, by 2020, their marriage unraveled. The divorce was highly public, marked by disputes over a Montana ranch, custody battles, and financial settlements. Clarkson was ordered to pay a large lump sum, child support, and spousal payments.

In 2023, a labor commissioner ruled Blackstock had violated California’s Talent Agencies Act, ordering him to repay \$2.6 million to Clarkson. Additional lawsuits followed before both parties dropped their cases in 2024. Few knew he was already fighting cancer during this turbulent time.

His family’s statement described his battle as brave and private, known only to those closest to him. The news shocked many in the music world.

Clarkson postponed her Las Vegas residency after his death, saying she needed to be present for their children during this time.

Blackstock leaves behind his four children, one grandson, and a complicated legacy — remembered for his role in the music industry, his family ties, and the quiet courage of his final years.