Kelly Clarkson's ex husband moved on with her former assistant before tragic death
Kelly Clarkson's ex-husband Brandon Blackstock had a "loving partner" at the time of his death, according to his obituary. The talent manager was married to singer Kelly from 2013 to 2020 and they welcomed two children together, River, 11, and son Remington, 9.
He tragically died this month aged 48 following a cancer diagnosis over three years ago. Kelly had postponed her Las Vegas residency after sharing Brandon had become ill just before his death.
Brandon also had two children from a previous marriage and in 2022, he became a grandfather after his eldest daughter gave birth to a son. Kelly filed for divorce from Brandon after six years of marriage in 2020, just weeks after they put their home on the market.
She said in 2023 that the split "ripped her apart". Brandon's obituary has revealed he was in another relationship at the time of his death as they quietly built a new life together in Montana.
He had been in a relationship with Brittney Marie Jones, who once worked as a former assistant to Kelly. "After more than 20 years in the music business, Brandon found his way back to the mountains and the cowboy way of life he always wanted to live," the obituary read.
"He found a homestead and a love in Butte, Montana. Brandon, along with his beautiful and loving partner in life and business, Brittney Marie Jones, started building a life, building companies, and working tirelessly to create Headwaters Livestock Auction and what will live on as his legacy, The Valley View Rodeo in Bozeman, Montana."
A report on Blackstock and Jones' rodeo business from 2024 listed Brittney as Kelly's "former assistant". The surprise revelation came just hours after Brandon's first wife, Melissa Ashworth spoke out.
Alongside photos of her with Brandon on their children - Seth, 18, and Savannah, 23 - she wrote: "On May 29, 1999 I married the man who would become the father of my children.
"Brandon was full of charm, wit, and just an absolute gentleman who happened to wear cowboy boots, wrangler jeans, and a cowboy hat. He was by far, hands down, the best Daddy and Pa. He loved hard and he fought hard.
"The best thing Brandon has left for his children is they know where he is. I've heard it said, "Nothing is lost when you know where it is" and Brandon is with Jesus his Savior. Savannah, Seth, and our grandchildren are the best parts of who Brandon and I are. Thank you all for your prayers and condolences."
Brandon married Kelly following his divorce from Melissa. A statement from the family announcing Brandon's death 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."
When announcing she was cancelling her Las Vegas residency, Kelly shared: "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."
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