Brandon Blackstock (born December 16, 1976) is an American talent manager and television producer, best known for his work in the music industry and his high-profile marriage to singer Kelly Clarkson. He has managed several notable artists and was closely associated with the entertainment management firm Starstruck Management, founded by his father. Brandon Blackstock gained widespread public attention due to his professional and personal connections within the country music scene.
Early Life and Family Background
Brandon Blackstock was born in Fort Worth, Texas. He is the son of Narvel Blackstock, a prominent music manager and television producer, and Elisa Gayle Ritter. His father later married country music superstar Reba McEntire, making her Brandon’s stepmother for several years. Although McEntire and Narvel eventually divorced, Brandon has reportedly remained close to her.
Raised in a family deeply rooted in the entertainment business, Brandon grew up around musicians, managers, and producers. This environment played a crucial role in shaping his eventual career in artist management.
Career in the Music Industry
- Brandon Blackstock followed in his father’s footsteps by pursuing a career in music management. He worked with Starstruck Management Group, the same firm founded by his father. Over the years, he became known for managing several successful country and pop music acts, including:
- Blake Shelton
- Rascal Flatts
- Carly Pearce
- Kelly Clarkson (prior to and during part of their marriage)
He was known not just for his managerial role but also for his behind-the-scenes production work. Brandon was credited as an executive producer on The Kelly Clarkson Show, a daytime talk show hosted by his then-wife.
Blackstock earned a reputation for being detail-oriented, effective in negotiations, and well-connected within the Nashville music scene.
Personal Life
Relationship with Kelly Clarkson
Brandon Blackstock first met Kelly Clarkson in 2006 when she was rehearsing for a performance at the Academy of Country Music Awards. At the time, he was managing Blake Shelton, who was also participating in the event. However, it wasn’t until 2012 that the two reconnected and began dating. Their relationship progressed quickly:
• Engagement: December 2012
• Marriage: October 20, 2013, at Blackberry Farms in Walland, Tennessee
The couple had two children together:
• River Rose Blackstock (born 2014)
• Remington Alexander Blackstock (born 2016)
Brandon also has two children, Savannah and Seth, from a previous marriage to Melissa Ashworth. He and Kelly Clarkson publicly embraced their blended family and often shared moments from their personal lives with fans.
Divorce and Custody Battle
In June 2020, Kelly Clarkson filed for divorce, citing irreconcilable differences. The legal process that followed was lengthy and complex, involving issues related to child custody, spousal support, property, and financial disputes.
The divorce was finalized in March 2022. Clarkson was granted primary physical custody of their two children, while Blackstock was allowed visitation rights.
Legal and Financial Disputes
Following their divorce, a legal dispute emerged between Clarkson and Blackstock over alleged improper business dealings. Clarkson filed a lawsuit claiming that Blackstock and his management firm, Starstruck, had charged her excessive and unlawful commissions. According to the allegations, Blackstock acted as an unlicensed talent agent in California and was therefore not entitled to certain fees.
Blackstock denied the allegations and filed a countersuit, leading to a legal back-and-forth. The matter was eventually settled out of court, with Blackstock reportedly ordered to pay back millions in commissions.
This lawsuit added a layer of complexity to their already publicized divorce and was widely covered by the media.
Recent Events
In August 2025, Kelly Clarkson postponed several scheduled performances in Las Vegas, citing a family emergency. It was later revealed that Brandon Blackstock was experiencing serious health issues, and Clarkson chose to prioritize caring for their children during that period. Although specific details about his illness were not made public, the announcement shed light on the ongoing challenges faced by their family, even post-divorce.
Legacy and Public Image
Brandon Blackstock’s public image is largely defined by his work in the country music industry and his marriage to Kelly Clarkson. While he has been praised for his contributions to music management, particularly in building the careers of various artists, his legal and personal controversies have also drawn significant media scrutiny.
Despite these challenges, Blackstock remains a figure of interest in both the music industry and celebrity culture. His close ties to influential figures, including Reba McEntire and Blake Shelton, reinforce his longstanding connection to Nashville’s entertainment ecosystem.
Quick Facts
Final Thoughts
Brandon Blackstock represents a complex figure in American entertainment—equal parts businessman, celebrity spouse, and behind-the-scenes industry professional. While much of his fame has stemmed from personal relationships, particularly his marriage to Kelly Clarkson, his impact on the careers of several major music artists cements his place in the broader narrative of the country and pop music industries.
