Kelly Clarkson Cancels Concerts to Comfort Kids Amid Ex’s Declining Health

Fans of Kelly Clarkson received unexpected and emotional news this week, as the beloved singer and talk show host revealed she is postponing the remainder of her August Las Vegas residency due to a private family emergency involving her ex-husband, Brandon Blackstock.

In a heartfelt message posted to social media, the 43-year-old Grammy winner shared that her decision was made with her children’s well-being in mind.

“While I normally keep my personal life private, this past year, my children’s father has been ill, and at this moment, I need to be fully present for them,” Clarkson wrote. “I am sincerely sorry to everyone who bought tickets to the shows and I so appreciate your grace, kindness, and understanding.”

 

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Though Clarkson has not disclosed the nature of Blackstock’s illness, the announcement comes after a series of absences earlier this year from her daytime talk show, The Kelly Clarkson Show, where she missed ten episodes without explanation.

The news not only marks a significant shift in her summer performance plans but also shines a light on the continued complexity of her relationship with Blackstock, with whom she shares two children — daughter River, 11, and son Remington, 9.

The former couple’s relationship — both romantic and professional — dates back to 2012, culminating in marriage in 2013. Their eventual split in 2020 led to a drawn-out and highly publicized legal battle involving spousal support, custody arrangements, and management fees Clarkson argued were wrongfully collected during their marriage.

In 2023, she won a $2.6 million judgment against Blackstock after the California Labor Commissioner ruled he had improperly taken commissions meant for licensed talent agents. Though a settlement was finally reached in May 2024 over additional disputed earnings, the details remain confidential.

Despite the stormy history, Clarkson’s decision to pause her residency suggests her focus remains firmly on her children.

While fans are naturally disappointed, support for the Since U Been Gone singer has poured in across social platforms, with many applauding her honesty and prioritization of family over fame.

Ticket holders for the postponed Las Vegas shows have yet to receive official word regarding rescheduling or refunds, but sources close to Clarkson assure that updates will be coming soon.

Meanwhile, speculation continues around Clarkson’s long-term future in daytime TV, as insiders suggest the pop icon may be reconsidering her commitment to The Kelly Clarkson Show. Rumors of her unhappiness with the show’s schedule have circulated since her absence earlier this year — with some insiders hinting that she may step away entirely depending on the performance of her next album release.

For now, Clarkson is pressing pause — not on her career, but on everything that keeps her from being the mom her kids need most right now.