Kelly Clarkson’s ex-husband Brandon Blackstock has tragically passed away after battling cancer, and her number one focus is taking care of their kids.
“Kelly’s work schedule has been difficult over the last few months as she needed to take care of her kids,” a source tells Us Weekly. “She needed the time off as her kids come first. It’s terrible and sad. Kelly is a great mom and has needed to be there for her kids. Only a few people in Kelly’s circle [and] a handful of her show’s team [were aware of] what was going on behind the scenes.”
An insider also spoke to Page Six, saying “It’s been exhausting and so sad… Kelly has been working so hard, as well as looking after Brandon. Despite their difficult divorce, he’s still the man she loved and still her kids’ father.”
A rep for the family confirmed Brandon’s passing in a statement to People on August 7, just one day after Kelly canceled her Las Vegas residency and announced he’d been ill:
“It is with great sadness that we share the news that Brandon Blackstock has passed away,” they said. “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 wrote in her statement the day before, “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. I am sincerely sorry to everyone who bought tickets to the shows, and I so appreciate your grace, kindness and understanding.”
