Reba McEntire is reflecting on the deep bond she shared with her late stepson, Brandon Blackstock.
In an exclusive interview with People, the country music legend opened up about the loss of Brandon, who was also the former husband of singer Kelly Clarkson.
“My relationship with my stepson, Brandon Blackstock, was precious,” McEntire said. “I absolutely loved that child. He came into my life when he was about four years old. Then, when Narvel and I got married, he was 13 or 14.”
McEntire went on to share how she helped raise him alongside his parents. “Along with his mom and dad, I helped raise him, along with [stepkids] Shawna and Chassidy,” she said. “They were my kids.”
The singer also reminisced about Brandon’s playful spirit. “He loved to scare people,” McEntire recalled.
Kelly Clarkson Returns to Instagram for American Idol Anniversary
“We’d be at the office at Starstruck in Nashville, and I’d see Penny Chubb [a Starstruck Entertainment employee] walk by on her way to the ladies’ room. Then here comes Brandon — he’d hide behind a pillar just waiting to jump out and startle her.”
Blackstock, a well-known talent manager, died on August 17, 2025, at the age of 48 following a three-year battle with skin cancer.
“It is with great sadness that we share the news that Brandon Blackstock has passed away,” a representative told People. “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.”
How Kelly Clarkson’s Bosses Supported Her During Talk Show Absences
Blackstock was married to Clarkson from 2013 to 2022. The former couple, who share two children together, finalized their divorce in March 2022 — two years after Clarkson first filed in 2020.
Following the news of his passing, McEntire shared a heartfelt tribute on Instagram, writing, “Last week, my stepson — my oldest son — Brandon Blackstock went home to be with God. His struggle is over and he is in eternal peace in God’s presence.”
