Kelly Clarkson’s ex-husband Brandon Blackstock dies at 48

Kelly Clarkson's ex-husband, Brandon Blackstock, has passed away, his representative confirmed. He was 48.

Blackstock, who was also Clarkson's manager, had been battling with melanoma, a type of skin cancer.

"It is with great sadness that we share the news that Brandon Blackstock has passed away," the statement read. "Brandon bravely battled cancer for more than three years. He passed away peacefully and was surrounded by family."

"We thank you for your thoughts and prayers and ask everyone to respect the family's privacy during this very difficult time," it continued.

The news came a day after Clarkson postponed her remaining Las Vegas shows.

“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," Clarkson wrote on Instagram.

"I am sincerely sorry to everyone who bought tickets to the shows," she added, "and I so appreciate your grace, kindness and understanding," she continued.

Blackstock and Clarkson first met at a rehearsal for the Academy of Country Music Awards in May 2006. They reconnected again in 2012 at Super Bowl XLVI and eloped the following year. 

Blackstone served as Clarkson's manager and a producer on her award-winning daytime talk show, The Kelly Clarkson Show. He also previously managed the country singer Blake Shelton.

The couple filed for divorce in 2020 due to “irreconcilable differences.”

Blackstone leaves behind four children and one grandchild. His children include Savannah and Seth Blackstock from his first marriage, and River Rose and Remington Alexander, his two children with Clarkson.