Rhianna Benson
A day prior to talent manager Brandon Blackstock's death yesterday (7 Aug), his ex-wife Kelly Clarkson shared a heartfelt statement online.
Blackstock's passing, aged just 48, was announced by his family in an official message given to PEOPLE Magazine, ruling the cause of his death as a private struggle with cancer.
"It is with great sadness that we share the news that Brandon Blackstock has passed away," the statement began. "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."
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The music star leaves behind two children - a daughter, River Rose, and a son, Remington 'Remy' Alexander', whom he shares with ex-wife Clarkson, 43.
A day prior to Blackstock's death, the 'Since U Been Gone' singer shared an emotional statement on social media, revealing that the handful of her Las Vegas residency dates for the month would be cancelled.
Despite not detailing the nature of her ex-husband's condition, she revealed at the time that the father of her children had been unwell.
Clarkson wrote: "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."
She continued: "I am sincerely sorry to everyone who bought tickets to the shows and I so appreciate your grace, kindness and understanding."
For those unfamiliar with the former couple's bittersweet love story, Blackstock and Clarkson had been married since 2013, seven years after first meeting met at a rehearsal for the Academy of Country Music Awards in 2006.
Throughout the duration of their relationship, Clarkson and Blackstock welcomed their children. In 2020, however, the pair sadly announced their separation, and two years later their divorce was finalised.
In a January 2024 interview with PEOPLE, the talk-show host confessed her gratitude for having had her 2023 album Chemistry as a means of venting her frustration over the split.
"I cannot express how appreciative I feel for having that kind of healthy outlet," Clarkson said at the time.
"Because the level of depression and things that come with divorce or grieving is extraordinarily hard. You feel alone, and it’s just a blessing to be able to have that outlet for those emotions that are overwhelming."
If you have experienced a bereavement and would like to speak with someone in confidence, contact Cruse Bereavement Care via their national helpline on 0808 808 1677.