On Thursday, August 7, it was revealed that Brandon Blackstock, the ex-husband of Kelly Clarkson and stepson of Reba McEntire, passed away at the age of 48 after a three-year battle with cancer.

Brandon’s illness had been kept private before his passing. The heartbreaking news was confirmed in a statement released by his family.

The statement 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.”

It was later confirmed that Brandon died of melanoma.

Just one day before his death, Kelly made a public statement revealing that Brandon was ill, although she did not say to what extent.

She announced that she would be postponing her Las Vegas residency to be there for her children, River (11) and Remington (9).

Reba McEntire Reacts To Brandon’s Passing

Brandon was a former talent manager. He even managed his ex-wife for several years before he and Kelly divorced in 2020.

He was also the stepson of country superstar Reba McEntire. His father, Narvel Blackstock, was married to Reba for 26 years before officially calling it quits in 2015.

Brandon was just 12 years old when Reba and Narvel got married, and they welcomed his half-brother, Shelby, one year later.

Although Reba was no longer married to Brandon’s father, she spent many years with him and watched him grow up.

On Tuesday (August 12) the “Is There Life Out There” singer broke her silence about Brandon’s passing.

Reba shared a statement and a series of photos to Instagram honoring her late stepson. She wrote:

“Last week, my stepson/oldest son Brandon Blackstock went home to be with God. His struggle is over and he is in eternal peace in God’s presence. There is no one else like him, and I’m thankful for the time we had together. His legacy and laughter will be carried on through his family. Rest in peace cowboy. Happy trails to you til we meet again.”

Reba previously left a comment on her son, Shelby’s, heartfelt tribute to Brandon. He fondly remembered his older brother, writing:

“He taught me so much, leaving behind countless cherished memories that I will hold onto forever. For every treasured moment we shared, there are so many more we’ll never get to make together, but I know you’ll still be there. Every hunt, every flight, and in the everyday moments of life, I’ll feel your presence.”

Shelby ended his post by saying, “We will always miss you, Brandon, and we will never stop loving, remembering and celebrating you.”

Reba commented under Shelby’s tribute, writing, “Very well said Shelby. Yes we will miss him so much.”

You can read Shelby’s entire tribute to Brandon below. Our prayers go out to all of Brandon’s loved ones.