Kelly Clarkson may have finalized her divorce from Brandon Blackstock in 2022, but it sounds like she was still there for him in his final moments. On Thursday, news broke that Brandon died at 48 following a three-year battle with cancer, just hours after the American Idol winner announced she would be postponing the remaining dates of her Las Vegas residency. Now, a source close to Kelly says that she was “protective” of him as she keeps their children first.
Kelly is ‘devastated’ for her kids.
Kelly and Brandon shared kids River Rose, 11, and Remington Alexander, 9, and she’s “devastated” that they’re mourning the loss of their father, a source close to the singer told People.
“When she found out that he was sick, she remained protective of him for their sake,” the insider said. “Kelly has always tried to keep things classy. It became clear earlier this year that Brandon was not doing well. She’s been devastated for the kids.”
Despite their divorce, Kelly has always tried to keep things peaceful for her children.
The former couple had a famously contentious divorce, but it sounds like Kelly has tried to keep that part of her life far away from her children.
“The divorce was incredibly difficult for her — messy, painful and something she felt terrible about,” the insider added. “But she always wanted her kids to have the best relationship possible with their dad. She never spoke poorly about Brandon to the kids.”
Brandon’s death was confirmed on Thursday.
“It is with great sadness that we share the news that Brandon Blackstock has passed away,” a rep for Brandon’s family said in a statement to multiple outlets, including People. “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.”
Kelly announced she was canceling the rest of the dates of her Las Vegas residency just before Brandon’s death became public.
“Unfortunately, I need to postpone the remainder of the August Studio Session dates in Las Vegas,” Kelly wrote in an Instagram post. “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.”
We’ll be thinking of Kelly, River, and Remi during what is certainly a very difficult time for their family.
