Following Brandon Blackstock’s death on August 7, 2025, at age 48, Reba McEntire’s old comments about his divorce from Kelly Clarkson resurfaced. In 2021, Reba had expressed neutral support for both Brandon and Kelly, saying she loved them both and wouldn’t take sides. Reba, who was married to Brandon’s father Narvel Blackstock for 26 years, considered Brandon family despite their separation. She said, “He’s been my son forever. I love them both with all my heart.”

Kelly Clarkson also reflected positively on her relationship with Reba after her divorce from Brandon was finalized in 2022. She said they stayed close and still texted regularly, adding Reba remained a mentor and friend. Kelly joked that Reba, with her own divorce experience, understood things deeply. The pair continued working together on The Voice, despite the family split.

Though Kelly and Brandon had a painful divorce, she remained protective when he became ill with cancer. A source revealed that she prioritized their two children, River and Remington, during his illness, and never spoke poorly of him to them. She postponed her Las Vegas shows in early August, just before his death, citing a family health emergency.

Brandon’s last public appearance with family was in March 2025 at Rodeo Houston with Reba and his half-brother Shelby. After his passing, fans supported Kelly’s decision to focus on her kids. Despite their rocky history, she was devastated for them and honored Brandon’s role in their lives. In past interviews and through her music, Kelly has spoken about processing grief and regaining strength after loss.