Kelly Clarkson Steps Away From The Stage To Support Her Children As Her Ex-Husband, Brandon Blackstock, Battles An Undisclosed Illness
Kelly Clarkson has postponed the remainder of her August shows in Las Vegas to support her children as her ex-husband, Brandon Blackstock, has been ill.
Brandon and Kelly married in 2013. They welcomed two children together, River Rose (age 11) and Remington Alexander (age 9).
Kelly filed for divorce from Brandon in 2020. The divorce was finalized two years later, in 2022.
Earlier this year, Kelly took a sudden leave of absence from The Kelly Clarkson Show. She missed 10 tapings, while her celebrity guests stepped in to serve as temporary hosts.
Several rumors surfaced about the reason for Kelly’s absence. One report from an unnamed source claimed that “Her ex-husband is sick and she took the kids to see him.”
When she finally returned to the show, Kelly said it had been a difficult time for her children, telling The Minecraft Movie stars Jack Black, Jason Momoa, and Danielle Brooks:
“It was kind of a dark week for me and my family, and I got to preview the movie with them. It was such an exciting thing. So I just wanted to say thank you. It brought my kids out of, like, a sad time to like, just a normal kind of time.“
Now, Kelly has confirmed that her ex, Brandon, has been battling an undisclosed illness for the past year.
In a post she shared to social media on Wednesday (August 6), Kelly announced the postponement of several shows in her Studio Sessions Las Vegas residency. She said:
“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. I am sincerely sorry to everyone who bought tickets to the shows and I so appreciate your grace, kindness and understanding.”
Kelly Clarkson Receives Outpouring Of Support From Fans
While those who made travel plans and had tickets to Kelly’s shows are disappointed, most fans fully understand her need to be with her children.
She received an outpouring of support in the comments on her Instagram post, with fans leaving kind messages such as:
“Those kids need you more than we do! Go be the best momma! Best wishes to all involved.”
“Family always comes first, Kelly. Take the time you need.“
“What an incredible human being you are!!! Sincerely!!“
“Sending love to you and your family.. your fans understand.”
“Being a mom comes first, everything else can wait. Love and prayers to all of you.“
“I feel your pain and I truly understand your decision. I hope everything turns out well. I love you.”
“Never apologize for putting your kids first.“
“Family first, all the best wishes and wish him a speed recovery.“
“You are such a good mother. Do not apologize for putting your kids first.”
She also received a lot of love on Facebook, with people writing:
“You doing what is best for your children is far more important than shows. When one parent is suffering, then the other parent is needed so much more by their children. Your children are fortunate to have you as their mom.”
“This right here. Let us take a minute to applaud a working woman and mom who has her priorities in check. What a great example to working women and mothers everywhere.”
“I hope all goes well and you, the kids, and [he] come through this as well as possible. My family will be thinking of yours during this time. Stay positive and find the good in each day.”
“Never be sorry for doing the best thing for your kids!“
“Kelly… family will always be the priority. Especially the children. God Bless.”
Sadly, Brandon Blackstock passed away at the age of 48, his rep confirmed to PEOPLE on August 7. Our thoughts and prayers go out to Brandon’s loved ones during this time.