Kelly Clarkson’s Kids River and Remington: A Heartfelt Look at Their Lives After Brandon Blackstock’s Death

Kelly Clarkson’s two children, River Rose and Remington Alexander, are now facing life without their father, Brandon Blackstock, who passed away from cancer in August 2025. The beloved singer, TV host, and mother of two made the heartbreaking announcement as she paused her Las Vegas residency to focus on her children’s emotional needs.

Blackstock, a music manager and the former husband of Clarkson, died at the age of 48 after a courageous three-year battle with cancer. A representative for the family shared, “Brandon passed away peacefully, surrounded by family. We appreciate your thoughts and prayers during this incredibly difficult time.”

Clarkson, known for keeping her personal life private, stepped forward to update her fans. “My children’s father has been ill, and I need to be fully present for them,” she wrote on Instagram, prioritizing the well-being of River and Remington.

Who Are Kelly Clarkson’s Children, River Rose and Remington Alexander?

Kelly Clarkson’s children, River and Remington, were born during her marriage to Brandon Blackstock. The couple met in 2012, married in 2013, and welcomed River in 2014 and Remington in 2016. Though they divorced in 2020, Clarkson has consistently emphasized her dedication to co-parenting and nurturing her kids through life’s challenges.

River Rose Blackstock, Born 2014

River Rose was born on June 12, 2014, in Nashville. From a young age, River has shown a vibrant personality, often accompanying her mom to events and even inspiring Clarkson’s 2016 children’s book River Rose and the Magical Lullaby.

Clarkson once said, “She will run a company one day because there’s no way she’s gonna work for anyone.” At age 3, River was already displaying bold confidence and independence.

River, now 11, has also appeared on her mom’s music projects. She features on the track “you don’t make me cry” from Clarkson’s 2023 album chemistry. However, River’s journey hasn’t been without challenges. She is dyslexic and was once bullied for not reading like her classmates. Clarkson bravely shared this on-air in 2023, sparking support from viewers and celebrities alike.

Actor Henry Winkler, also dyslexic, had a message for River: “How you learn has nothing to do with how brilliant you are.” The moment went viral and highlighted Clarkson’s fierce advocacy for her children.

Remington “Remy” Alexander Blackstock, Born 2016

Remington, affectionately called Remy, was born on April 12, 2016. The youngest of Clarkson’s children, Remy faced early developmental challenges due to undiagnosed hearing issues, which delayed his speech.

Clarkson shared in a 2020 interview that Remy’s ears were blocked with wax during infancy, which led him to speak as if he was underwater. “It set him back almost nine months,” she said, adding that therapy helped him find his voice and express himself more confidently.

Now 9, Remy is known for his joyful personality and close bond with his sister. From Disney vacations to red carpet appearances, he’s been by Clarkson’s side. He even attended the 2024 Grammy Awards with his mom, proudly dressed in a red velvet suit and Lego boutonniere.

One of Remy’s most memorable public moments came in 2021 during a taping of The Kelly Clarkson Show, when he interrupted Chris Martin’s performance to announce he had to use the bathroom—earning laughs and a high-five from the Coldplay frontman.

Why Kelly Clarkson Prioritizes Parenting After Tragedy

The loss of Brandon Blackstock has marked a turning point in Kelly Clarkson’s parenting journey. Known for her resilience, Clarkson is now focusing entirely on helping her children grieve and heal. The singer, who has often spoken about the importance of mental health, is working closely with therapists to ensure River and Remy process the loss in healthy ways.

“We have a lot of help… because we want to do it right,” she said in an earlier interview, referring to therapy during the divorce. That commitment remains unchanged in the face of new grief.

What’s Next for River and Remington?

While Clarkson has not shared specific plans for the coming months, it’s clear she’s stepping away from the spotlight to focus on being a full-time mom. The decision to pause her career, even temporarily, reinforces her deep commitment to her children’s emotional and mental well-being.

River and Remy are expected to continue their schooling with the support of family, professionals, and their mother’s unwavering love. Fans around the world have shown an outpouring of support for the family during this time.

As Kelly Clarkson navigates motherhood, grief, and healing, her children remain her guiding light—and the heart of her story.

You Must Know:

What are the names of Kelly Clarkson’s kids?
Kelly Clarkson has two children: her daughter River Rose and her son Remington Alexander.

When were Kelly Clarkson’s children born?
River Rose was born in June 2014, and Remington Alexander followed in April 2016.

Did Kelly Clarkson’s children appear in public events?
Yes, both kids have made appearances at events like the Grammys, The Kelly Clarkson Show, and family trips to Disneyland.

How is Kelly Clarkson helping her kids after Brandon Blackstock’s death?
Clarkson is focusing on being fully present, working with child therapists to support River and Remy through grief and emotional healing.

What challenges have Kelly Clarkson’s kids faced?
River is dyslexic and has faced bullying, while Remy dealt with delayed speech due to hearing issues early in life.