‘American Idol’ Star ‘Devastated’ After Heartbreaking Loss of Ex

Kelly Clarkson is grappling with unimaginable grief after the death of her ex-husband, Brandon Blackstock, following his private three-year battle with melanoma. The loss has left Clarkson “devastated” for the couple’s two children, River, 11, and Remington, 9.

Those close to Clarkson say her children have been her main concern throughout this ordeal. Even after a highly publicized and messy divorce, the American Idol alum made it clear that her role as a mother would always come first. Insiders reveal that when Clarkson learned of Blackstock’s diagnosis, she did everything possible to support him behind the scenes, all for the sake of their kids.

“When she found out that he was sick, she remained protective of him for their sake,” a source told People. “She’s been devastated for the kids.”

The singer quietly canceled her Las Vegas residency shows just hours before Blackstock’s death to be by her children’s side. In a rare, emotional Instagram post, she wrote: “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.”

Despite a bitter two-year legal battle that finally ended in 2022, Clarkson and Blackstock continued to co-parent. Clarkson was awarded primary physical custody of River and Remington, but the court granted joint legal custody. Clarkson agreed to pay her ex over $1.3 million as part of the divorce, along with monthly child and spousal support.

“The divorce was incredibly difficult for her – messy, painful, and something she felt terrible about,” a source shared. “But she always wanted her kids to have the best relationship possible with their dad. She never spoke poorly about Brandon to the kids.”

After their split, Blackstock retreated from the public eye, settling into ranch life in Montana while Clarkson moved her talk show—and her children—to New York City in 2023.

Blackstock’s family confirmed his passing on Thursday, August 7, describing him as a devoted father who “bravely battled cancer for more than three years” before dying peacefully, surrounded by loved ones.

The family has asked for privacy as they navigate this difficult time, while fans and friends continue to pour out their support for Clarkson and her children as they cope with the heartbreaking loss.