On Monday, the official cause of the passing of talent manager Brandon Blackstock, the estranged spouse of renowned pop star and daytime television personality Kelly Clarkson, was unveiled by the local coroner. Blackstock, who was united in marriage with the former American Idol winner from 2013 to 2022, had initially been reported to have succumbed to cancer upon his demise last week. On that solemn day, the Silver Bow County coroner revealed that Blackstock had lost his battle to melanoma, a formidable skin cancer that had silently plagued him for three years. The distinguished talent manager breathed his last on August 7th at the age of 48.
"The cause of death was melanoma, and the manner of his passing was natural," Silver Bow County Coroner Dan Hollos communicated to The Hollywood Reporter via phone on Monday, when inquired about Blackstock. It is said that he expired peacefully at his residence, under the compassionate care of hospice, embraced by his beloved family members.
Blackstock's management company, Starstruck—founded by his father—initially disclosed his passing in a heartfelt statement posted on their Instagram account: "Brandon valiantly fought cancer for more than three years. He transitioned calmly, surrounded by the warmth of his family. We are deeply grateful for your thoughts and prayers and humbly request everyone to uphold the privacy of the family during this excruciating time."
On Wednesday evening, Clarkson sorrowfully informed her fans of her decision to postpone the August engagements of her Las Vegas residency, citing Blackstock's illness as the compelling reason. The vocal powerhouse and television megastar emphasized the necessity to be "fully present" for their two children, whom they have been co-parenting diligently for years. "While I usually keep my personal life under wraps, over the past year, my children's father has been gravely ill, and at this juncture, I must be wholeheartedly there for them. I sincerely apologize to everyone who purchased tickets to the shows and immensely appreciate your understanding, kindness, and generosity," she expressed.
In the weeks leading up to her ex-husband's demise, Clarkson, who co-parents daughter River and son Remy with Blackstock post-divorce, had missed taping several episodes of her highly popular eponymous talk show, stirring concern among her fans. Clarkson and Blackstock's paths first crossed during a rehearsal for the Academy of Country Music Awards in May 2006.
Beyond his children with Clarkson, Blackstock leaves behind two offspring from a prior marriage and one grandchild, whose lives will forever be etched with the memory of a loving father and a courageous fighter.
