Brandon Blackstock was a notable American talent manager, television producer, and a familiar figure in the country-pop crossover world—known both for his professional achievements and his high-profile personal life. As the son of industry veteran Narvel Blackstock and former stepson of iconic country artist Reba McEntire, he grew up immersed in music and entertainment. He rose through the ranks to become a successful manager at Starstruck Entertainment, working with artists like Blake Shelton, Carly Pearce, and later Kelly Clarkson herself People.comKTVU FOX 2 San Francisco.
Early Life and Career Foundations
Born on December 16, 1976, in Fort Worth, Texas, Brandon Blackstock inherited both talent and legacy. His father, Narvel Blackstock, founded Starstruck Entertainment in Nashville, and Brandon followed in his footsteps—training in the family business and nurturing relationships with prominent country artists IMDbInStyle. Over time, he managed heavyweights like Blake Shelton and carried forward his father’s legacy through his work at the agency KTVU FOX 2 San FranciscoTaste of Country.
Meeting Kelly Clarkson: Personal Meets Professional
Brandon Blackstock and Kelly Clarkson first crossed paths at a 2006 Academy of Country Music Awards rehearsal, while he was still working at Starstruck and still married KTVU FOX 2 San FranciscoWBAL-TV. They reconnected by chance in 2012 during a Super Bowl event, sparking a relationship that would lead to marriage KTVU FOX 2 San FranciscoTaste of Country. In a 2013 interview, Clarkson recalled her first impression: “This guy walks by, making everybody laugh. I said, ‘I’m gonna end up with him. I know it.’” People.comKTVU FOX 2 San Francisco.
Marriage, Career Partnership, and Parenthood
In October 2013, Brandon Blackstock and Kelly Clarkson eloped and exchanged vows in Tennessee. Their union marked a rare blending of personal and professional worlds—Brandon began managing Clarkson’s career in 2017 and also served as an executive producer for The Kelly Clarkson Show KTVU FOX 2 San FranciscoPeople.com. Together, they had two children: a daughter, River Rose (born 2014), and a son, Remington “Remy” Alexander (born 2016) Los Angeles TimesKTVU FOX 2 San Francisco. Brandon also had two older children—Savannah and Seth—from a previous marriage, and he became a grandfather in 2022 when Savannah welcomed her own son People.comDecider.
Divorce and Legal Challenges
Despite their shared history, Brandon Blackstock and Kelly Clarkson’s marriage unraveled—Clarkson filed for divorce in June 2020, citing irreconcilable differences KTVU FOX 2 San FranciscoPeople.com. Their separation gave way to a contentious legal and financial battle. The divorce was finalized in March 2022, involving a one-time settlement for Brandon, plus significant spousal and child support payments KTVU FOX 2 San FranciscoPeople.com.
Legal friction continued when Clarkson alleged that Brandon, acting as her manager, had overstepped as a talent agent without proper licensing in California. In a court decision, Brandon was ordered to return approximately $2.6 million in unauthorized commissions earned through deals he procured Hindustan TimesPeople.com. Both parties eventually withdrew their remaining lawsuits in 2024 People.comDecider.
Later Years and Health Battle
After their separation, Brandon Blackstock largely stepped back from the spotlight. He relocated to Montana and embraced a quieter lifestyle as a full-time rancher YouTube. In 2025, Kelly Clarkson revealed that Brandon had been battling an illness over the past year, prompting her to postpone several Las Vegas residency shows to focus on co-parenting and her children during his illness People.comGood Morning America.
Passing and Legacy
On August 7, 2025, Brandon Blackstock passed away at age 48 after a courageous three-year battle with cancer, reportedly melanoma, according to reports The Times of IndiaNews.com.auDecider. His family shared that he “passed away peacefully and was surrounded by family,” and requested privacy during the difficult time People.comDecider. The news sent waves through both the entertainment industry and Clarkson’s fanbase—she once again postponed her show dates, choosing to prioritize family in the wake of his loss Los Angeles TimesDecider.
Remembering Brandon Blackstock
Brandon Blackstock leaves behind an indelible mark—through his contributions as a talent manager in Nashville’s music scene, his personal impact on the life and career of Kelly Clarkson, and the family he treasured. Though his life was marred by public struggles, he remained a devoted father and an industry professional committed to elevating artists around him.
His story reminds us of the highs and lows that often accompany lives lived in the public eye, and the enduring importance of compassion, privacy, and family.
