Biography of Brandon Blackstock (1976–2025)
Early Life and Family Background
Brandon Blackstock was born on December 16, 1976, in Fort Worth, Texas, to Narvel Blackstock, a prominent music manager, and Elisa Gayle Ritter. Growing up in the heart of the entertainment industry, Brandon was immersed in music and talent management from a young age. His father’s marriage to country music icon Reba McEntire from 1989 to 2015 made Brandon McEntire’s stepson, further embedding him in Nashville’s music scene. Brandon had three siblings—Shawna, Chassidy, and Shelby—and maintained close ties with his family throughout his life.
Career in Talent Management
Brandon followed in his father’s footsteps, carving out a successful career as a talent manager. He worked with Starstruck Management, his father’s company, representing high-profile artists such as Blake Shelton and Rascal Flatts. Known for his sharp business acumen and ability to navigate the competitive music industry, Brandon built a reputation as a skilled manager. His professional connections expanded significantly when he began managing Kelly Clarkson, whom he later married. His work involved negotiating contracts, guiding artists’ careers, and leveraging his industry ties to secure opportunities for his clients.
Personal Life and Marriage to Kelly Clarkson
Brandon’s personal life gained public attention through his relationship with Kelly Clarkson, the Grammy-winning singer and first American Idol champion. The two met in 2006 at a rehearsal for the Academy of Country Music Awards, where Brandon was married to Melissa Ashworth. They reconnected in 2012 at Super Bowl XLVI, sparking a romance that led to their engagement later that year. Brandon and Kelly married on October 20, 2013, in a private ceremony at Blackberry Farm in Tennessee. They welcomed two children, River Rose (born 2014) and Remington Alexander (born 2016). Brandon also had two children from his prior marriage to Ashworth, Savannah and Seth, and became a grandfather in 2022 with the birth of Savannah’s son, Lake.
The marriage, while initially celebrated, faced challenges. Brandon took on the role of Kelly’s manager, a decision that later complicated their professional and personal dynamics. The couple separated in June 2020, with their divorce finalized in March 2022 after a contentious legal battle. Disputes centered on property, spousal support, and a $2.6 million judgment against Brandon for overstepping his managerial role by securing deals for Kelly that required an agent’s license. Despite the acrimony, Kelly and Brandon prioritized co-parenting their children.
Health Struggles and Passing
In 2022, Brandon was diagnosed with melanoma, a severe form of skin cancer. He battled the disease for three years, undergoing extensive treatment. His condition deteriorated in early 2025, and he was last photographed looking frail at the Houston Rodeo in March. On August 6, 2025, Kelly Clarkson postponed her Las Vegas residency to focus on their children during Brandon’s final days. Brandon Blackstock passed away peacefully on August 7, 2025, at age 48, surrounded by family, including his children and ex-wife Kelly, who had supported him through his illness despite their past differences.
Legacy and Impact
Brandon Blackstock’s career in talent management left a mark on the music industry, particularly in country music, through his work with artists who shaped the genre. His personal life, though turbulent, highlighted his role as a father and grandfather, with his children and grandson at the core of his final years. Tributes from fans and industry peers poured in on platforms like X, reflecting on his contributions and the challenges he faced. Kelly Clarkson has not yet made a public statement, but sources close to her describe her as deeply saddened, focusing on helping their children navigate the loss.
Brandon’s passing at a young age underscores the devastating impact of cancer and has sparked conversations about health awareness. His life, marked by professional success and personal complexities, remains a significant chapter in the entertainment world’s narrative.
Sources: People, TMZ, Rolling Stone, CNN, Us Weekly