Kelly Clarkson Children Update: Rare Glimpse into Healing 5 Months After Brandon Blackstock’s Death

Five months after a devastating loss, Kelly Clarkson is opening up about her family's resilience. Behind the spotlight, the Grammy winner is focusing on the simplest of joys to help her two children navigate life without their father, Brandon Blackstock.

Kelly Clarkson Children Update: The Power of a Daily 'Snuggle'

In a heartfelt backstage Q&A posted on January 11, 2026, via The Kelly Clarkson Show YouTube channel, Clarkson shared how her children, River (11) and Remy (9), are coping. She revealed that her favorite part of the day is their nightly routine, which has evolved into a full house in the primary bedroom.

"There’s been a lot for our family recently, and so I have allowed my kids to sleep with me quite a bit," Clarkson stated. She described the scene as a crowded but "special" mix of two dogs, two kids, and herself, noting that the intimate conversations they have during these moments are what she cherishes most.

A Look Back at Brandon Blackstock’s Battle

Brandon Blackstock, who served as Clarkson’s manager for nearly a decade, passed away on August 7, 2025, at the age of 48. According to reports by Entertainment Weekly, his death was the result of a three-year battle with malignant melanoma, an aggressive skin cancer.

Just one day before his passing, Clarkson had announced an indefinite pause on her Las Vegas residency to remain "fully present" for her children. During her subsequent absence from public duties, fellow artist Jennifer Hudson stepped in to cover her coaching role on The Voice Season 29.