Kelly Clarkson and Brandon Blackstock Set for Trial in August Regarding Commissions Dispute

Kelly Clarkson has received a significant win from a judge in Los Angeles County as she prepares to go to trial with her ex-husband, Brandon Blackstock.

The trial, scheduled for August 27, will specifically examine whether Blackstock, 47, received fees from deals he assisted in securing for Clarkson, 42, which would go against California's Talent Agencies Act. This law strictly prohibits non-licensed individuals from taking commissions on deals arranged for professional artists.

Judge Wendy Chang has ruled that the litigation will focus solely on whether there was a violation of the labor code. Any questions regarding earnings and damages will be addressed later.

The trial originates from an appeal filed by Blackstock against a previous ruling in November 2023, which granted Clarkson $2.6 million. This "de novo" trial means that the case will receive a new evaluation in state court.

Blackstock’s legal team was looking forward to the trial addressing the breach-of-contract claims they made against Clarkson last year, along with delving into Clarkson’s financial situation. They believed that this would show how the commission fees were used for shared expenses and allowed Clarkson to maintain a certain lifestyle.

Kelly Clarkson Wins Rulings As Judge Sets Date for Trial With Ex Husband Brandon Blackstock

Brandon Blackstock's lawyer, Bryan Freedman, expressed that it is morally, ethically, and legally incorrect to seek repayment from Blackstock, who not only supported his ex-wife Kelly Clarkson as her manager but also used the earnings for their children and their lifestyle during their marriage.

The trial is set to last a minimum of five days with testimony from Rick Roskin and Darryl Eaton, agents from Clarkson's current agency, CAA. According to Blackstock, Roskin and Eaton were present with him at The Voice's studio in May 2017 just before he allegedly conversed with the NBC executive who offered Clarkson a position on the show. It is alleged that Blackstock received a commission when Clarkson was selected as a judge for the 14th season of The Voice.

According to court documents obtained by Rolling Stone, CAA agent Cat Carson testified last year that Roskin and Eaton did not request Blackstock to directly negotiate with the NBC executive.

Ed McPherson, Clarkson's lawyer, explained that if the singer wins the de novo trial, Blackstock won't be able to pursue his other claims. "If we win everything at de novo, they don't even get a trial. They have no right to anything. There would be no management agreement, and they get no commissions," McPherson stated, as reported by Rolling Stone.

Clarkson filed for divorce from Blackstock in May 2020. The two were married for seven years and share two children, River Rose, 9, and Remington, 7.

Editor's P/S:

The upcoming trial between Kelly Clarkson and her ex-husband, Brandon Blackstock, highlights the legal complexities surrounding the relationship between artists and their managers. Clarkson's lawsuit alleges that Blackstock violated California's Talent Agencies Act by receiving commissions on deals he secured for her, while Blackstock maintains that the fees were used for shared expenses and Clarkson's lifestyle. The outcome of the trial will likely impact the industry as it clarifies the responsibilities and limitations of non-licensed individuals involved in talent management.

Furthermore, the article raises concerns about the potential financial implications for artists who engage in business arrangements with their spouses or partners. While it's common for individuals to rely on family members for support in their careers, it's crucial to establish clear boundaries and legal agreements to protect both parties in the event of a separation or divorce. The case also serves as a reminder of the importance of understanding the laws and regulations governing talent representation to avoid any legal disputes or financial losses.