Kelly Clarkson Shares Heartfelt Update on Children After Brandon Blackstock’s Passing

Kelly Clarkson Discusses Family’s Journey After Loss

In a recent update, Kelly Clarkson opened up about how her children are coping following the death of her ex-husband, Brandon Blackstock, who passed away at the age of 48 due to cancer. The emotional revelation came during a backstage Q&A video for The Kelly Clarkson Show, which was published on January 10, 2026. Clarkson, 43, highlighted the importance of family bonding during this challenging time, particularly focusing on her daughter River, 11, and son Remington, 9.

Clarkson expressed that one of her favorite daily activities is to “snuggle” with her kids, emphasizing the special age they are at where they are gaining independence yet still crave affection. “My kids, they’re 9 and 11. Kind of that special little fun stage where they can wipe their own behinds, but they’re still small enough to, like, love cuddling and love snuggles,” she explained. Given the emotional toll of recent events, she has allowed her children to sleep with her more often, creating a comforting environment for them all.

“It’s my two dogs, my two kids and me. It’s a lot,” Clarkson admitted, but she also noted that these moments are cherished, as they foster meaningful conversations in a safe space. “It’s been really special, though, because… the conversations you have during that time are pretty cute. So that’s probably my favorite time of day,” she shared.

The update comes as Clarkson navigates the aftermath of Blackstock’s death in August 2025, after a three-year battle with cancer. His illness became public when Clarkson postponed her concerts in Las Vegas to care for her children, stating, “Unfortunately, I need to postpone the remainder of the August Studio Session dates in Las Vegas. 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.”

The family was devastated by the news of Blackstock’s passing, which was confirmed by his family the following day. They expressed gratitude for the support they received during such a difficult time, asking for privacy as they grieved. “Brandon bravely battled cancer for more than three years. He passed away peacefully and was surrounded by family,” the spokesperson conveyed.

While Clarkson initially stepped back from her daytime talk show and filming commitments on The Voice to focus on her children, she eventually returned to work in September 2025. Reports indicated that Blackstock’s illness had a significant impact on their co-parenting dynamic, with sources suggesting it gave both parties a new perspective, even if it did not necessarily bring them closer.

Reba McEntire, Clarkson’s former mother-in-law, spoke about the family’s adjustment to life without Brandon, revealing that they are taking it “one day at a time.” McEntire shared that the children are bonding and supporting each other, a testament to their resilience in the face of tragedy. She added, “We know God’s got this.”

In a heartfelt tribute, McEntire honored her late stepson on what would have been his 49th birthday in December 2025, sharing a touching message alongside a nostalgic photo of the two. Brandon Blackstock is remembered not only as a father to Clarkson’s children but also to his daughter Savannah, 23, and son Seth, 18, from his previous marriage.