Kelly Clarkson, the first “American Idol” winner, endured years of personal and legal turmoil with ex-husband Brandon Blackstock before his death at 48 after a private three-year cancer battle. The couple, married in 2013, had two children — River Rose and Remington Alexander. Their 2020 divorce exposed custody conflicts, with Clarkson awarded primary custody for stability.

Blackstock, living in Montana, had visitation in Los Angeles. They shared legal custody but struggled with trust and co-parenting. Money disputes followed, including Clarkson’s claims that Blackstock’s management company overcharged commissions. A trial was scheduled for August 2024, but both sides settled in May while Blackstock was in treatment.

Clarkson later shared that their children hoped for a reconciliation and resisted her dating again. His death closed a chapter marked by love, conflict, and resilience, leaving their children holding on to their vision of family.