Kelly Clarkson Prioritizes Children Over Dating After Ex-Husband's Death

Kelly Clarkson has decided to refrain from dating to focus on her children following the death of her ex-husband, Brandon Blackstock. Clarkson shared this decision during an appearance on the "Las Culturistas" podcast on Wednesday.

"My kids right now — I think there's a lot behind that, but that would rock their boat a little bit," Clarkson explained, emphasizing that her current priority is her family. She stated that she is content with this choice and does not feel she has the capacity for a romantic partner at this time.

Clarkson described her current life as less exhausting and more fulfilling, noting the joy she finds in spending time with her children, daughter River, 12, and son Remington, 10. "It's been really good and we're having fun. We're cooking, we're playing games. I'm there at pick-up or I'm there at drop-off. It's real different," she said.

Brandon Blackstock died in August 2025 at the age of 48 after battling cancer. Clarkson and Blackstock married in 2013 and finalized their divorce in 2022 after a protracted legal process.

Following Blackstock's death, Clarkson stepped away from her eponymous daytime talk show, "The Kelly Clarkson Show," which concluded its seven-year run on August 31. She had previously stated that her children were a primary reason for taking on the show and a significant factor in her decision to end it, allowing her to prioritize their needs during this new chapter.

A source told Page Six in August that Clarkson has been dedicated to supporting her children through their grief, ensuring they feel loved, supported, and stable.