Joshua Goldman
Joshua Goldman
min read · August 8, 2025 · Entertainment

Kelly Clarkson's TV Future in Limbo After Ex-Husband's Passing

The unexpected news that Kelly Clarkson's ex-husband Brandon Blackstock has died following a private battle with cancer could have a major impact on her shows for NBC; pictured May 6 in NYC

Kelly Clarkson's Ex-Husband Brandon Blackstock Passes Away After Secret Cancer Battle

The entertainment world is reeling with shock and sadness as news breaks out that Kelly Clarkson's ex-husband, Brandon Blackstock, has died after a private battle with cancer. The 48-year-old talent manager had been fighting the disease for over three years, leaving behind a legacy of love and heartbreak.

A Tragic End to a Turbulent Marriage

Clarkson, a coach on The Voice who also hosts The Kelly Clarkson Show, had already announced the day before Blackstock's death at 48 that she was postponing her remaining Las Vegas residency concerts in August; pictured together in 2020 in Santa Monica, Calif.

Clarkson and Blackstock were married from 2013 to 2022, but their relationship was far from smooth sailing. After filing for divorce in June 2020 on grounds of irreconcilable differences, the couple engaged in years of contentious legal battles over finances. Clarkson claimed that her husband had overstepped his role as manager by collecting commissions on deals he set up without going through the proper talent agents at Creative Artists Agency.

A $2.6 Million Judgment and a Bitter Settlement

In a shocking twist, Clarkson won a $2.6 million judgment against Blackstock in 2023 for dealing with commissions he shouldn't have collected. The couple finally reached a settlement in May this year, but the details of their agreement remain under wraps.

Taping for the 43-year-old singer's shows could potentially be pushed back in wake of her tragic news to allow her and her children with Blackstock to grieve; Clarkson is pictured on The Voice in 2021

The Final Chapter in Their Turbulent Relationship

Now, just months after the settlement was reached, Blackstock has passed away, leaving Clarkson to grieve alongside their two young children, River and Remington. In a statement released by his family, they shared that he had been surrounded by loved ones when he passed away.

Clarkson's Heartfelt Tribute to Her Late Ex-Husband

Last month, Clarkson was announced as one of the celebrity coaches on the upcoming season 29 of The Voice, in addition to John Legend and Adam Levine

On Thursday morning, Clarkson revealed on her social media account that she would be postponing the remaining dates of her Las Vegas residency due to her ex-husband's health issues. She expressed her gratitude for the public's understanding and support during this difficult time.

"Unfortunately, I need to postpone the remainder of the August Studio Session dates in Las Vegas," Clarkson wrote. "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."

Taping of The Voice and Kelly Clarkson Show May Be Affected

According to the online live ticket request site 1iota, the first taping of the season is scheduled for Thursday, August 21, when two episodes will be recorded, followed by a third on the following day. It's unclear if taping will be postponed for her; seen in 2013 in Las Vegas

As news of Blackstock's passing spreads, speculation is rife about how his death will affect the taping schedules of both The Voice and Kelly Clarkson Show. Clarkson is set to return as a coach on season 29 of The Voice, which is scheduled to air in spring 2026. The show's tapings are currently planned for August 21-23.

Kelly Clarkson: Songs & Stories May Be Impacted by Blackstock's Passing

Clarkson also has an upcoming four-episode interview series titled Kelly Clarkson: Songs & Stories, set to air on NBC starting August 19. While a trailer released recently suggests that she may have pre-taped the entire show, it remains unclear whether the taping schedule will be affected by her personal loss.

Blackstock's death could also affect the currently taping season 28, as celebrity coach Reba McEntire is Blackstock's former stepmother. She was married to his father, Narvel Blackstock (L), from 1989 until 2015; pictured in 2015 in Phoenix, Ariz.

The Family's Statement and Tributes Pour In

In a statement shared on X (formerly Twitter), Blackstock's family expressed their gratitude for the outpouring of support from friends and fans. They asked that everyone respect their privacy during this difficult time, acknowledging that they are still reeling from the news.

As news of Blackstock's passing spreads, tributes have been pouring in from fellow celebrities and friends. Clarkson's fans are also rallying around her, sending love and support during this tough time.

Clarkson's talk show The Kelly Clarkson Show previously announced it would begin taping again in the fall, so it's unclear if it would be pushed back; pictured in 2019 in LA

Kelly Clarkson: A New Chapter in Her Life

For Kelly Clarkson, this latest development marks a new chapter in her life. With the postponement of her residency shows and potential impact on her upcoming series and The Voice taping schedule, it remains to be seen how she will navigate this challenging time. One thing is certain – Clarkson's resilience and strength will carry her through, even as she grieves the loss of her ex-husband.

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She also has a third NBC show, the four-episode series Kelly Clarkson: Songs & Stories, but it appears to have been pre-taped; pictured July 11 in Las Vegas

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