Cause of Death Confirmed for Brandon Blackstock, Kelly Clarkson’s Ex

Just days after his passing at age 48, the cause of Brandon Blackstock’s death has been confirmed. The Nashville music manager—who spent seven years married to Kelly Clarkson—passed away peacefully in hospice care at his Butte, Montana home on August 7, surrounded by his family, according to Silver Bow County Coroner Dan Hollis in a statement to People.

Hollis determined that melanoma, an aggressive form of skin cancer, was the cause, and that the manner of death was natural.

According to the Mayo Clinic, melanoma originates in melanocytes—the cells responsible for skin pigment. While its precise origins vary, most cases are linked to ultraviolet light exposure from sunlight or tanning devices.

In a statement, Starstruck Entertainment—Blackstock’s longtime employer—said, “It is with profound sorrow that we announce Brandon Blackstock’s passing. He courageously battled cancer for over three years and left us peacefully in the comfort of his family. We appreciate your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time and ask for privacy for the family.”

The announcement followed Clarkson’s decision to postpone her August Las Vegas residency, choosing to remain with their children as Brandon battled his illness. Son of Starstruck co-founder Narvel Blackstock, Brandon was also the stepson of country legend Reba McEntire, who was married to his father for 26 years.

The pair met when their fathers worked together—Brandon’s father managed Clarkson’s career—and wed in 2013. They share two children: River (born 2014) and Remington (born 2016). Clarkson filed for divorce in 2020, and their separation was finalized in 2022.

Beyond River and Remington, Brandon is survived by two children from his first marriage—Savannah and Seth—and leaves behind his young grandson, Lake.

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