Kelly Clarkson is privately supporting her children through difficult moments as they approach the one-year mark since the death of their father, Brandon Blackstock. Clarkson, 44, married Blackstock, her former manager, in 2013, and they have two children: River, 12, and Remington, 10. The couple divorced in 2022 after separating in 2020.
Blackstock died in August of the previous year at age 48, following a private battle with skin cancer. Clarkson attended his funeral.
A source told Page Six that Clarkson's primary focus has been ensuring her children feel loved, supported, and stable, while allowing them space to grieve. "Losing a parent at such a young age is something no child should ever have to go through," the source said. "Kelly has done everything she can to be there for River and Remy as they’ve navigated that loss."
Despite experiencing "incredibly hard moments," Clarkson is reportedly in a "much better place" compared to the period during her divorce. Her current activities, including her Las Vegas residency and return to "The Voice," are seen as ways to balance her career with her desire to be present for her children. Earlier this year, she ended her daytime series, "The Kelly Clarkson Show," a decision she made to gain the time and flexibility needed to prioritize her family.
Clarkson and Blackstock's divorce was marked by a contentious legal battle over custody and finances, including their Montana ranch. Clarkson was granted primary custody of their children and moved them to New York City. She was ordered to pay Blackstock a significant sum in alimony and child support. Additionally, Clarkson successfully sued Blackstock for making unauthorized deals on her behalf, resulting in him being ordered to reimburse her $2.6 million.
Following Blackstock's death, sources indicated that Clarkson had contemplated whether the stress from their divorce may have impacted his health. While acknowledging the potential for coincidence, she was reportedly aware of the significant strain the divorce and legal proceedings placed on him, though she does not blame herself.
In the year after their divorce was finalized, Clarkson released the album "Chemistry," which explored the complexities of her marriage. During their relationship, Blackstock managed Clarkson's career, handling deals for "The Kelly Clarkson Show," "The Voice," the Billboard Music Awards, Norwegian Cruise Line, and a Wayfair partnership. A ruling determined that while Blackstock was within his rights to negotiate for her on "The Kelly Clarkson Show," other contracts should have been handled by her agents under California law.