Kelly Clarkson has returned to social media for the first time since the death of her ex-husband, Brandon Blackstock. The singer, who won the first season of American Idol in 2002, marked the 23rd anniversary of her victory with a heartfelt message to her fans.
“To everyone that took time 23 years ago to call in and vote for me, thank you,” Clarkson, 43, wrote on Instagram. She reflected on how winning American Idol changed her life and expressed gratitude to her supporters. The message was her first since news broke that Brandon Blackstock had passed away in Montana on August 7.
Remembering Brandon Blackstock
According to Fox News Digital, Brandon Blackstock died at age 48 after battling melanoma, a form of skin cancer. Officials confirmed he passed away peacefully under hospice care at his home in Butte, surrounded by family. His death was ruled as natural causes.
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In a family statement, loved ones described Blackstock as brave, noting that he fought cancer for more than three years. “It is with great sadness that we share the news that Brandon Blackstock has passed away,” the statement read. “He passed away peacefully and was surrounded by family.” The family also asked for privacy during this difficult time.
Clarkson’s Life After Loss
Following Blackstock’s death, Clarkson paused her Las Vegas residency, though her website still lists upcoming November dates. It remains unclear whether those shows will go forward. Meanwhile, her daytime program, The Kelly Clarkson Show, is preparing to begin production on September 8, with its seventh season set to premiere later this month.
Expected guests include Julia Roberts, Dwayne Johnson, and Emily Blunt. Clarkson, while mourning the loss of Brandon Blackstock, also took a moment to remind her fans of the gift of finding purpose and passion. Her message carried a mix of gratitude and resilience as she looks ahead to new chapters in both her career and personal life.