Brandon Blackstock Dies at 48, Dolly Parton Advises Kelly Clarkson on Grief

Kelly Clarkson's ex-husband, Brandon Blackstock, died at 48 after a battle with melanoma, prompting an outpouring of support from the entertainment community. Country music icon Dolly Parton, who lost her own husband Carl Dean earlier this year, offered Clarkson heartfelt advice on coping with grief, emphasizing the importance of cherishing positive memories and honoring Blackstock's legacy. Parton encouraged Clarkson to 'recycle' the energy from good memories and find comfort in the belief that loved ones are in a better place. Reba McEntire, Blackstock's former stepmother, also expressed her condolences and shared a touching tribute to him. Clarkson postponed her Las Vegas residency shows to care for their two children during Blackstock's illness, highlighting her need to be present for her family. While Parton has not yet spoken directly to Clarkson, she plans to reach out as they both navigate their losses and upcoming collaborative projects.