Kelly Clarkson ‘Remained Protective’ of Ex-Husband Post-Divorce for Her Children’s Sake

The singer remained cordial with her ex-husband following their tumultuous divorce. She did so because, despite a messy end to their relationship, she wanted her children to remain close to their dad.

Kelly Clarkson is putting her kids first following the death of their father, her ex-husband Brandon Blackstock. The music manager died on Thursday morning, August 7, 2025, following a quiet battle with cancer. Clarkson is said to be utterly heartbroken for her children.

"When she found out that he was sick, she remained protective of him for their sake," a source told People. "Kelly has always tried to keep things classy. It became clear earlier this year that Brandon was not doing well. She's been devastated for the kids."

Clarkson and Blackstock were married from 2013 to 2020, during which they welcomed their daughter, River Rose, 11, and son, Remington Alexander, 9. They filed for divorce in 2020, and finalized their split in 2022.

Despite the acrimonious nature of the proceedings, Clarkson still protected her kids' relationship with their father. "The divorce was incredibly difficult for her — messy, painful and something she felt terrible about," the source added.

"But she always wanted her kids to have the best relationship possible with their dad. She never spoke poorly about Brandon to the kids," they said. Blackstock suffered from melanoma, a severe form of skin cancer.

According to a spokesperson, who released a statement announcing his death on behalf of his family, "He passed away peacefully and was surrounded by family."