‘Kelly Clarkson Show’ Future Confirmed Following Ex-Husband’s Tragic Death

The fate of “The Kelly Clarkson Show” has been decided, and the news comes during an incredibly difficult time for its host.

Kelly Clarkson is mourning the loss of her ex-husband, Brandon Blackstock, who tragically passed away at just 48 years old after a quiet, years-long battle with cancer.

His death has left the entertainment world grieving alongside the singer, while many fans wondered what it would mean for Kelly Clarkson’s hit daytime talk show.

According to TMZ, “The Kelly Clarkson Show” is officially locked in for a seventh season and will return with fresh episodes in September.

The renewal confirmation follows months of cancellations across Clarkson’s schedule, moves that sparked concern and speculation among fans. While she didn’t address the reasons at the time, it now appears those decisions were likely tied to Blackstock’s private health battle.

The heartbreaking news of Blackstock’s passing came just one day after Clarkson revealed his illness publicly for the first time.

In an emotional Instagram post on August 6, the “Stronger” singer announced she was canceling the rest of her Las Vegas Studio Sessions to be with the couple’s two children, River Rose, 11, and Remington “Remy” Alexander, 8.

“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 to fans and followers.

One day later, it was revealed that her ex had passed.

“It is with great sadness that we share the news that Brandon Blackstock has passed away,” the statement read. “Brandon bravely battled cancer for more than three years. He passed away peacefully and was surrounded by family. We thank you for your thoughts and prayers and ask everyone to respect the family’s privacy during this very difficult time.”

A source told PEOPLE that while Clarkson is “staying strong” for her children following the death of her ex-husband, she is “absolutely heartbroken” for them.

“Kelly and Brandon had their ups and downs, but at the end of the day, he was the father of her children and she is absolutely heartbroken for them,” the insider said. “Her kids are her entire world, and she’s staying strong for their sake.”

Another source told PEOPLE that Clarkson has “been devastated” for her kids throughout his illness.

“When she found out that he was sick, she remained protective of him for their sake,” the source explained, adding, “Kelly has always tried to keep things classy. It became clear earlier this year that Brandon was not doing well. She’s been devastated for the kids.”

The pair first met in May 2006 while Clarkson was rehearsing for the Academy of Country Music Awards. At the time, Blackstock was still married to his first wife, Melissa Ashworth.

Fast forward and Blackstock and Ashworth’s divorce was finalized in 2012, the same year fate brought him and Clarkson back together at the Super Bowl, where she performed the national anthem.  One week later, they went on their first date, and by December, Blackstock had popped the question.

The couple tied the knot on October 20, 2013, at Blackberry Farms in Walland, Tennessee, and soon after welcomed two children, daughter River in 2014 and son Remington in 2016. Blackstock also became Clarkson’s talent manager, encouraging her to launch “The Kelly Clarkson Show” in 2019 and overseeing part of her stint on “The Voice” from 2018 to 2023.

But behind the scenes, cracks were forming.

Clarkson ultimately filed for divorce in June 2020, just months after the family quarantined in Montana during the COVID-19 pandemic, citing “irreconcilable differences,” and their split was finalized in 2022. She was awarded primary physical custody of the kids but ordered to pay her ex $45,000 a month in child support.

In 2023, Clarkson accused Blackstock of overcharging her as a manager and won a ruling ordering him to pay back $2.6 million.

The following year, she alleged he told her she wasn’t “sexy” enough to be a judge on “The Voice,” citing the claim in court filings connected to the lawsuit.