Kelly Clarkson May Be Softening Her View on Brandon Blackstock — Here’s Why

Fans are still wondering what happened to Kelly Clarkson earlier this year when she took a leave of absence from The Kelly Clarkson Show, but that “personal matter” might be related to her ex-husband, Brandon Blackstock. 

In April, NewsNation claimed that the former music manager was “sick,” so Clarkson “took the kids to see him.” Clarkson nor Blackstock’s representatives have confirmed that speculation, but it could point to why the talk show host has softened her stance on her ex after a contentious divorce. 

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A Page Six insider is now talking about the shift in their relationship. They described Clarkson as a “compassionate and caring person” who understands what it is like to grow up “without a father.” She only wants the best for their children, River, 10, and Remington, 8, and that’s why “what has happened [recently] has helped her to move beyond the divorce.” 

Clarkson also realized that Blackstock’s strategic moves as her manager helped her achieve new heights in her career. 

“The irony is that he’s had a very positive influence on her life; he made these phenomenal deals for her, and she wouldn’t be here without him. But it’s hard to be a manager and a husband,” a second source added, “At the time, she greatly appreciated what he had done for her career.”

The Page Six report also seems to indicate that whatever is happening behind the scenes, somehow involves Blackstock — and understandably, they are all keeping the issue private. 

Ahead of the recent personal matters, Clarkson revealed in November 2024 that their co-parenting relationship was “tough,” but in a much better place than just two years ago. 

“I know with me and Brandon, it’s just a difficult thing because we’re in different places, and it’s like, we both agree on the main things, but it’s a hard thing when you’re not together all the time, for me personally,”  she told KOST 103.5. “As long as you make sure it’s about the children and their best interests, then we’re both on board.”

Time may be healing some of their wounds, and their private family issue might be unexpectedly uniting them.

Before you go, click here to see celebrity exes who will always be friends.