An 'Emotional' Return: Kelly Clarkson's Talk Show Resumes Just Weeks After Ex-husband Brandon Blackstock's Death at 48 Following Private Cancer Battle

In a touching return to her popular daytime talk show, Kelly Clarkson resumed hosting just a short time after the death of her ex-husband, Brandon Blackstock. Clarkson’s emotional comeback aired less than two months following Blackstock’s passing at the age of 48 from cancer, a battle that heavily impacted her personally and professionally.

Last season, Kelly’s absence from the show for several weeks led to speculation about her potential departure from the program altogether. After it was revealed that her ex-husband was battling cancer, fans became concerned about her well-being and the future of her show.

Clarkson, who shares two children—daughter River Rose and son Remington ‘Remy’ Alexander—with Blackstock, faced a challenging time ahead of the family tragedy.

Prior to his passing, Clarkson had to cancel her Las Vegas residency, sharing with fans that she needed to be present for her children during a difficult time. In a heartfelt message, she expressed, “While I normally keep my personal life private, my children’s father has been ill, and at this moment, I need to be fully present for them,” apologizing to those who had purchased tickets to her shows.

Following Blackstock’s death, uncertainty loomed over the future of Clarkson’s talk show.

In a heartwarming and emotional premiere on September 29, Clarkson returned to her New York City studio to kick off Season 7, beginning the episode with a segment honoring the local heroes who responded to the July 4th flooding in Texas. While she did not mention Blackstock’s death, the segment was full of emotion as she highlighted the bravery of a bus driver who rescued nearly 900 children from the floodwaters.

According to music director Jason Halbert, the episode was poignant for everyone involved and offered a glimpse into what lies ahead for the show during Clarkson’s grieving period.

Halbert commented on the challenges the crew faced, remarking on how Clarkson manages to transition from showcasing emotional segments to crafting fun activities with kids and then performing heartfelt music. He hinted that the song choices for her famous “Kellyoke” segment would reflect the experiences of the past year, promoting a sense of lightness throughout the show.

To ensure you’re always in the know, sign up for daily updates delivered straight to your inbox.

By entering your email and clicking Sign Up, you agree to receive tailored marketing messages from us and our partners, as well as our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.

Clarkson, 43, ended the premiere episode by emphasizing her intention to keep the show’s atmosphere uplifting, affirming that the season’s theme will be “light.” She also treated viewers to a rendition of The Weeknd’s smash hit, Blinding Lights.