Kelly Clarkson provides rare update on her children months after ex-husband Brandon Blackstock’s passing

Kelly Clarkson recently provided an update on her children after the passing of their father, Brandon Blackstock.

The pop star discussed her family’s situation during a ‘Q&A’ session with fans, shared on the YouTube channel of The Kelly Clarkson Show.

Clarkson and Blackstock were married from 2013 until their divorce in 2022. Together, they have two children, son Remington, who is nine, and daughter River, who is 11.

Brandon Blackstock passed away at the age of 48 on August 7, 2025, after a prolonged battle with cancer that lasted over three years.

During the Q&A, a fan inquired about what Clarkson does daily that brings her happiness.

The fan asked: “What is the one thing you do every day that brings you joy?”

Clarkson responded: “Snuggle. My kids, they’re nine and 11. Kind of that special little fun stage where they can wipe their own behinds, but they’re still small enough to, like, love cuddling and love snuggles.”

She candidly revealed: “There’s been a lot for our family recently, and so I have allowed my kids to sleep with me quite a bit.

“It’s my two dogs, my two kids and me. It’s a lot.”

The artist described these moments as the most ‘special’ part of her day, commenting: “The conversations you have during that time are pretty cute. So that’s probably my favorite time of day.”

Blackstock, who worked as a talent manager, received a statement from his family following his death that read: “It is with great sadness that we share the news that Brandon Blackstock has passed away.

“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.”

An obituary noted that Blackstock was with a ‘loving partner’ prior to his passing.

Before marrying Clarkson, Blackstock was wed to Melissa Ashworth in 1999, and they were together for 13 years before divorcing in 2012.

Clarkson had earlier discussed how she approached her divorce from Blackstock with their children on the Angie Martinez IRL podcast.

“I literally ask my kids every night when we’re snuggling up in the bed, ‘Are you happy? And if you’re not, what could make you happier?'” she shared in 2023.

Clarkson continued: “Especially the past two years… it kills me [but] I want them to be honest so I don’t ever say, ‘Oh God, don’t tell me that.’

“But a lot of times it would be like, ‘I’m just really sad. I wish Mommy and Daddy were in the same house.’

“They’re really honest about it. I’m raising that kind of individual.”

If you have experienced a bereavement and would like to speak with someone in confidence, contact GrieveWell on (734) 975-0238, or email [email protected].