Kelly Clarkson was the original winner of the very first American Idol in 2002. She has since gone on to become a Grammy winner, a global superstar, and one of the most versatile recording artists in the music industry, conquering pop, rock, country, and soul. Kelly found love with music manager Brandon Blackstock , and they married in a Tennessee ceremony in 2013. The couple welcomed two children together — daughter River Rose and son Remington — and Kelly embraced Brandon’s two children from a previous marriage. Unfortunately, Kelly and Brandon decided to end their relationship in 2020, finalizing their divorce after a lengthy legal battle that also included Kelly’s lawsuit over commissions he earned from business deals with her.
In August 2025, Kelly revealed she was postponing part of her Las Vegas residency to be present for their children amid Brandon’s private battle with cancer. His death was announced shortly after.
Scroll through the gallery to see more moments from Kelly’s life and career.
