Untangling the Truth: Kelly Clarkson's Candid Revelations on Her Heartbreaking Divorce from Brandon Blackstock

Kelly Clarkson made a surprising move when she officially filed for divorce from Brandon Blackstock on June 4, 2020. The couple, who had been married for almost seven years, faced numerous challenges that ultimately became insurmountable, particularly during their time in quarantine amid the coronavirus pandemic.

The insider disclosed that despite getting married in October 2013 and having two children together, daughter River Rose and son Remington, the couple's marriage was far from perfect. According to the source, Brandon is known for being laid-back, while Kelly tends to be more high-strung.

In April 2015, the American Idol champion emphasized that Blackstock was not her "other half," but acknowledged their shared interests and similarities. The "Miss Independent" singer expressed that both she and Blackstock are complete individuals, highlighting her belief in self-reliance. She attributed this mindset to her upbringing, which lacked financial resources and familial support.

Clarkson has recently emphasized the importance of prioritizing oneself in a relationship, referring to it as the "oxygen-mask mentality." In the aftermath of their separation, she has been candid about her ongoing feelings and the evolving nature of her relationship with her estranged husband.

"My life has been quite a mess," admitted the Grammy winner during a September interview on Sunday Today With Willie Geist. "Personally, the past few months have been challenging."

Nevertheless, when it concerns their family, the Voice coach has made a commitment to be more careful. Along with their two children, Blackstock is also the father of Savannah and Seth from his previous marriage to Melissa Ashworth.

The "Already Gone" singer expressed the difficulty of her situation, as it goes beyond her own heart. During the season 2 premiere of The Kelly Clarkson Show in September, she acknowledged the involvement of numerous little hearts, referring to their four children. Being familiar with the challenges of divorce due to their own family backgrounds, both Kelly and her ex-husband understand the importance of safeguarding their children and their emotional well-being.

Continue reading to discover more about the "Since U Been Gone" singer's thoughts on her separation from Blackstock.

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Everything Kelly Clarkson Has Said About Her Split From Brandon Blackstock

Keeping it real. Kelly Clarkson surprised some when she filed for divorce from Brandon Blackstock on June 4, 2020, after nearly seven years of marriage.

According to an exclusive source, the former couple had numerous conflicts and being in quarantine during the coronavirus pandemic only exacerbated their issues to an irreversible extent. The insider also revealed that despite getting married in October 2013 and having two children together, a perfect marriage was definitely not something they had.

"According to the source, Brandon is known for his laid-back personality, while Kelly tends to be more high-strung. In April 2015, the former American Idol winner clarified that Blackstock was not her "other half," but acknowledged that they did share many similarities."

"We are both complete individuals," the "Miss Independent" singer expressed in an interview with Redbook. "I have always been independent and self-reliant, probably because of my upbringing in poverty and lack of family support."

Clarkson further explained, "Our relationship is built on prioritizing each other. It's like the oxygen mask analogy - you must take care of yourself before you can take care of others!"

Since ending their relationship, Clarkson has become increasingly candid about her relationship with her estranged husband and her emotional state following the breakup. Speaking during an interview on Sunday Today With Willie Geist in September, the Grammy winner didn't shy away from expressing her feelings, stating, "It's no secret. My life has been quite tumultuous lately. On a personal level, these past few months have been particularly challenging."

When it comes to their family, however, the Voice coach has made a commitment to exercise caution. Along with their two children, Blackstock also has two children, Savannah and Seth, from his previous marriage to Melissa Ashworth.

"This is a difficult situation for me because it affects more than just my own emotions. It involves the well-being of many little hearts," expressed the "Already Gone" singer during the season 2 premiere of The Kelly Clarkson Show in September. "With four kids involved, divorce is never easy. We both come from divorced families, so we understand that the most important thing here is to safeguard our children and their tender hearts."

Scroll down to see what the “Since U Been Gone” singer has said about her split from Blackstock.

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Emotional Roller Coaster

Amidst the announcement of her separation, the author of The River Rose and the Magical Lullaby candidly shared about her life during the coronavirus quarantine. In a YouTube video released in June 2020, prior to the news of her divorce becoming public, Clarkson expressed herself as "an emotional roller-coaster." She confessed to Glamour UK that being a working parent during this time has been exceptionally challenging, as she continues to juggle all her responsibilities. The exhaustion has been overwhelming for her.

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Thanks for the Memories

In recognition of her exceptional performance in the first season of The Kelly Clarkson Show, Kelly Clarkson was honored with a Daytime Emmy Award for Outstanding Entertainment Talk Show Host. Expressing her gratitude, she acknowledged her estranged husband, Brandon Blackstock, for his unwavering belief in her and for encouraging her to embark on the journey of hosting the show. Clarkson also expressed her appreciation for her friend and assistant, T, emphasizing their invaluable support throughout her career. This heartfelt tribute was shared by Clarkson on her Instagram account in June 2020.

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Clarkson shut down a social media troll in August 2020 who claimed her marriage to Blackstock ended because she was fame hungry. The exchange began after the artist behind "Heartbeat Song" tweeted at America’s Got Talent judges Sofia Vergara and Heidi Klum while filling in for Simon Cowell, who was recovering from a back injury. The Twitter user wrote, "Now Kelly is taking Simon’s place…no wonder her marriage didn’t work." They went on to say that Clarkson no longer resembled the country girl they fell in love with, and that her focus was solely on being on TV rather than her children. However, Clarkson responded firmly, defending herself and dismissing the troll's accusations.

The Voice coach swiftly responded, tweeting, "Wow. Criticizing a woman who displays a strong work ethic, excels as a mother, and willingly steps in to help a friend because that's what 'good old country girls' do... I refuse to believe that this is truly who you are at your core. I have faith in your capacity for kindness. Aim higher, please."

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Silver Lining

The musician shared in a September 2020 interview on Sunday Today With Willie Geist that her upcoming album was a cathartic response to her breakup. She hinted that this forthcoming record would be her most personal yet, encompassing the full spectrum of emotions experienced throughout a relationship, from its inception to its current state. She emphasized the therapeutic nature of the album, highlighting its raw and honest portrayal of her experiences.

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Protector Mode

“I am a very transparent person, but I cannot fully disclose all aspects of this situation due to the presence of children,” Clarkson disclosed to the Los Angeles Times in a September 2020 interview, addressing her separation. “I believe that I will find a way to honestly and openly discuss it eventually, possibly through [The Kelly Clarkson Show], and it will likely unfold naturally when someone brings it up in conversation. It certainly wouldn't be premeditated.”

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Dumpster Disaster

During a conversation with Willie Geist in September 2020, the Trolls World Tour actress candidly discussed the aftermath of her separation. "It's no secret," she expressed, "my life has been quite a struggle lately. Personally, the past few months have been challenging."

Clarkson further shared, "I've been seeking solace in conversations with friends who have experienced divorce. I cannot fathom how individuals navigate through such a difficult situation without having some form of support, as it truly is a devastating experience for everyone involved."

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No One Can Prepare You

No one anticipates the challenges of divorce, as mentioned by the Grammy winner during an interview with Hoda Kotb on Today in September 2020. The vision of growing old with someone suddenly takes a different course in life. This experience is incredibly difficult for everyone involved. Personally, I strive to maintain an open and transparent approach. However, navigating through the complexities of divorce proves to be quite a delicate undertaking.

The singer of "A Moment Like This" also discussed the impact of divorce on not only the two individuals involved but also on everyone else. She emphasized that we all experience difficulties in life. However, considering that we have a total of four children together, it becomes crucial to approach the situation with utmost care. It's challenging because we are constantly in the public eye, and we strive to be truthful while also maintaining our privacy.

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Kids Come First

When The Kelly Clarkson Show returned for its second season in September 2020, the talented singer-songwriter didn't shy away from discussing the challenges she had faced in the past few months. Describing 2020 as a "dumpster fire," Clarkson acknowledged the unexpected changes that had occurred in her personal life.

For Clarkson, the difficulties she faced went beyond her own emotions. With four children involved, she recognized the importance of protecting their hearts during the process of divorce. Having grown up in divorced families herself, Clarkson and her ex-partner understood the significance of prioritizing their children's well-being. While Clarkson is known for her openness, she acknowledged that she may not delve too deeply into the details of her personal experience in order to safeguard her role as a devoted mother.

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The American Idol champion shared in September 2020 that she has found solace in fellow Voice coach John Legend's Bigger Love album during her breakup, praising the album's "sexy songs" as her personal favorites. Speaking on the season two premiere of The Kelly Clarkson Show, she expressed, "This album truly speaks to its greatness. When I started this show, my personal life was like an explosion. So, if this album can bring such joy to someone like me who craves the music of Joni Mitchell and Alanis Morissette, then it truly is an exceptional album."

The John Legend of It All

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Clarkson expressed her gratitude for the support she receives from her family and friends when it comes to raising her children. In an interview with Extra in October 2020, she acknowledged the challenges of navigating through personal experiences while also ensuring the protection of her beloved little ones. Clarkson emphasized the importance of being honest and sharing her story to possibly help others, while also prioritizing the well-being of her children. To ensure they receive the proper guidance, Clarkson and her family have sought assistance from therapists and child psychologists. She acknowledged that sadness is a natural part of the journey and that it is perfectly acceptable to feel that way.

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Doling Out Advice

After the end of her relationship, Clarkson openly shared her straightforward advice on dating to a fan who revealed that her crush only communicated with her through Instagram. During an episode of The Kelly Clarkson Show in October 2020, Clarkson expressed her confusion as to why anyone would want to be with someone who only shows affection in front of others. She emphasized the importance of understanding what goes on behind closed doors rather than solely focusing on public displays of affection, as it is crucial to know the true character of the person you choose to be with.

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Worried About the Kids

"It is a terrible situation with numerous challenges. Among them, the most difficult for me is dealing with the children. That aspect is truly the toughest," the vocalist expressed during her appearance on The Kelly Clarkson Show in December 2020. "As women, we are conditioned to handle everything and convince ourselves that we can manage it all, but it is our little ones that constantly occupy our concerns."

She added that it’s “a hard thing” to navigate her split in the public eye. 

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Change of Scenery

During a December 2020 episode of The Kelly Clarkson Show, Fran Drescher and Kelly Clarkson had a conversation about their respective divorces. Clarkson humorously mentioned that she is going to great lengths to find peace and comfort amidst her challenging separation. She shared that she recently moved into a new house that has a clean and pristine white interior. Additionally, she also revamped her office at the show, seeking assistance from the art department to create a space that resonates with her. Clarkson explained that she made these changes in order to find happiness and that the colors in her surroundings have a positive impact on her well-being.

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During a heartfelt conversation about songwriting on The Kelly Clarkson Show, Garth Brooks and Kelly Clarkson discussed the deeper meaning behind Clarkson's song "Piece By Piece." Originally written for her daughter and ex-husband, Clarkson revealed that the song now holds a different significance in her life. Reflecting on her personal journey, Clarkson shared how a lyric from her new album track "Rock Hudson" resonates with her: "By the way, piece by piece, I found out my hero's me."

The Voice coach also shared that she has been deeply moved by Brooks' music as she navigates a new chapter in her life. "I can't even believe it, but I was listening to my playlist and suddenly 'The Dance' started playing, and I just knew, that's the one. That's exactly it," she expressed. "What's intriguing is that I've been singing that song since I was a child, but it never really resonated with me... until now. Finally, I truly understand its message."

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Coparenting Struggles

In February 2021, during an episode of The Kelly Clarkson Show, the host engaged in a heartfelt conversation with Khloé Kardashian regarding the challenges of co-parenting. Khloé openly shared her personal experience, expressing the difficulties she faces as she and her ex-partner, Brandon, navigate their co-parenting journey from separate locations. Despite their mutual understanding on essential matters, the physical distance poses a significant obstacle for Khloé, making the situation particularly challenging.

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Skeptical About the Future

During a conversation with Gwyneth Paltrow on her talk show in March 2021, Clarkson expressed uncertainty about getting married again. She acknowledged that, being in the midst of a divorce, she couldn't fathom going through it all over again. Clarkson commended Paltrow for finding love and being open to the idea of marrying again, and asked if it had been a challenging decision for her.

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Single Forever

In her talk show, Clarkson openly expressed her preference for a coffee date rather than a cocktail. She revealed in December 2021, "I consider myself more of a coffee person. I'm not sure if I'm ready to commit to spending an evening with you just yet. It seems like I'll be single forever."

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"The holidays elicit a wide range of emotions," the vocalist expressed before her rendition of "Merry Christmas (To the One I Used to Know)" during her exclusive December 2021 event, Kelly Clarkson Presents: When Christmas Comes Around. "I want to be completely honest with you all — when I penned this upcoming song, tears were streaming down my face, as is sometimes the case even during the holiday season, my friends. Just after tucking my children into bed, I found myself engulfed in overwhelming emotions, struggling through a particularly challenging period. It has undeniably been a tough year for many of us. I wrote this song not only for myself, but also because there are not many holiday tunes that resonate with those who feel alone, lost, or simply melancholic, apart from Dolly Parton's timeless classic 'Hard Candy Christmas,' which we all cherish. It encapsulates the struggle of enduring a difficult holiday experience. I absolutely adore that song, and it inspired me to create this one."

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During an interview on the “Love Someone with Delilah” podcast in December 2021, the renowned singer expressed her lack of regrets amidst her divorce. She believed that these experiences shape individuals and make them better people, allowing them to recognize their past mistakes and intentionally ignored red flags. Despite this, she mentioned that she is not yet ready to venture into the dating scene again. The singer emphasized that constant companionship is not necessary, as she takes pleasure in her work, her children, and her creative endeavors. Being in a relationship sometimes stifles her creativity since she wears her heart on her sleeve. She admitted to enjoying the freedom of being single and expressed uncertainty about the future of love in her life. While she firmly stated that she would not marry again, she acknowledged that love is unpredictable. Growing up, societal norms dictated the necessity of having a partner, but she discovered that she does not have that need within herself. These challenging moments have taught her valuable lessons about her own desires and preferences.

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Single Parent Struggles

During a recent episode of The Kelly Clarkson Show, the "My Life Would Suck Without You" singer opened up about the challenges of being a single parent while quarantining with her children in February 2022. Clarkson humorously shared, "Sometimes as women, we don't always rise, we fall. I thought we were done with quarantining, and I'm exhausted. I even broke a nail. That's how broken I am. To top it off, my almond milk just expired. So, America, this is me at my lowest. You're welcome."

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A New Start

Clarkson took a significant step towards asserting her independence on Valentine's Day 2022 when she officially filed for a name change. In the court documents obtained by Us, the singer expressed that her new name, Kelly Brianne, better represents her true identity.

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Girl Power

During a segment on The Kelly Clarkson Show in June 2022, the Emmy winner opened up about her personal experience with divorce. She expressed gratitude for the support of her strong female friendships, emphasizing how they played a crucial role in helping her navigate her split from Blackstock. The Chicks, Natalie Maines and Martie Maguire, also chimed in, jokingly referring to themselves as "divorce buddies" while on tour, as they were going through their own separations at the time.

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Figuring Out Their Priorities

"It has been a challenging couple of years, so I felt it was crucial for me to take a break," the singer shared during an appearance on Today, discussing her recent family trip. "Both my children and I were able to be together, which was a rare occurrence due to our separation. Being in Montana allowed us to find a sense of calmness and stability, and I believe it was the first time my kids truly felt centered."

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“The whole divorce thing happened and I needed to express it,” Clarkson revealed to Variety in September 2022 regarding her upcoming studio record. “Initially, I was uncertain about releasing it, considering the intense anger I felt at that time. However, the songs on the album truly encapsulate a wide range of emotions; there is a complete spectrum. It's almost as if it mirrors the journey of a relationship, starting off beautifully and sweet, but then transforming. And sometimes, it doesn't transform in the way one hopes for."

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Got Your Back

During an episode of The Kelly Clarkson Show in October 2022, the Grammy-winning singer opened up about the advice she has given her children, River and Remington, in light of her divorce from Blackstock. Clarkson emphasized the importance of their sibling bond, often reminding them that they are each other's closest companions.

She added, "Therefore, I constantly strive to foster a sense of camaraderie between them whenever they argue. I emphasize the importance of being supportive wingmen for each other and discourage constant tattling."

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Getting Emotional

The singer revealed that her children have been expressing their sadness about their parents' separation in recent years. She shared that she asks her kids every night, during their snuggling time, if they are happy and what could potentially make them happier. Clarkson opened up about this during an interview on the "Angie Martinez IRL" podcast in March 2023. She mentioned that her children have been particularly vocal about their sadness over the past two years, and although it pains her to hear it, she encourages their honesty and never dismisses their feelings. She added that her own experience with divorced parents helps her empathize with her children's emotions. Clarkson emphasized the importance of open communication with her kids, treating them neither as adults nor as small children, but acknowledging that their feelings are significant and validating their emotions.

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Clarkson recounted her experience performing "I Will Always Love You" at a tribute event dedicated to Dolly Parton. Just moments before taking the stage, she received the news that her divorce had been finalized and both parties had signed the necessary papers. Reflecting on this unexpected timing during a SiriusXM Town Hall in June 2023, Clarkson expressed her frustration with the universe, exclaiming, "Okay, right before singing 'I Will Always Love You'? Screw you, universe."

"What I am grateful for is that it was a significant personal milestone for me, going on stage without anyone knowing about it. It served as a distraction from the pressure of singing. So when I successfully completed the performance and stepped off the stage, I had a sense of relief. It may not have been as exceptional as Whitney Houston or Dolly Parton, but it definitely didn't disappoint."