Following the death of Brandon Blackstock on August 7, 2025, at age 48, old comments from Reba McEntire about his divorce from Kelly Clarkson resurfaced. Back in 2021, Reba had expressed warm but neutral support for both Brandon and Kelly, saying she loved them equally and wouldn’t take sides. As the former stepmother of Brandon through her 26-year marriage to his father, Narvel Blackstock, Reba still considered him family. She remarked, “He’s been my son forever. I love them both with all my heart.”

Kelly Clarkson, whose divorce from Brandon was finalized in 2022, also spoke fondly of her relationship with Reba. She revealed they had stayed close, often texting, and that Reba remained a mentor and friend. Kelly joked that Reba’s own divorce experience gave her unique insight, and the two continued working together on The Voice, proving that their bond survived the family split.

Despite a painful separation, Kelly remained protective of Brandon when he was diagnosed with cancer. A source close to her shared that she focused on their children, River and Remington, during his illness, and avoided speaking negatively about him to them. In early August, just before his death, she postponed her Las Vegas shows, citing a family health emergency.

Brandon’s last public appearance with family came in March 2025 at Rodeo Houston, where he was seen with Reba and his half-brother Shelby. The gathering now stands as a bittersweet memory for those close to him.

After his passing, fans supported Kelly’s decision to step back from work to be with her children. Though their marriage ended painfully, she was deeply affected by the loss, grieving not only for herself but for her kids.

In past interviews and through her music, Kelly has spoken about processing grief and finding strength after tragedy. Brandon’s death adds another layer to that journey — one where love, family ties, and compassion endure even after relationships change.