Brandon Blackstock Dies at 48 After Cancer Battle, Family Mourns Nationwide

Reba McEntire spoke at the 2025 Emmy Awards about the recent passing of her stepson, Brandon Blackstock, who died after a private three-year battle with cancer. She shared that Blackstock's four children—Savannah and Seth from a previous relationship, and River Rose and Remington Alexander with ex-wife Kelly Clarkson—are coping by bonding and spending time together, taking things one day at a time. McEntire emphasized the family's faith, saying, "We know God's got this," and described herself as an anchor for the children during this difficult period. She also paid tribute to Blackstock on social media, calling him irreplaceable and celebrating his legacy and laughter. Amid the somber reflections, McEntire revealed her engagement to actor Rex Linn, marking their first public appearance as a couple at the awards. The family has requested privacy to grieve, while Kelly Clarkson is reported to have prioritized their children despite legal tensions following her divorce from Blackstock.