Kelly Clarkson makes huge career decision after death of ex-husband

Kelly Clarkson has made a huge career decision following the death of her ex-husband. The singer, 43, who has enjoyed major success with her eponymous talk show over the last six years but had a host of guest presenters like Brooke Shields and Andy Cohen step in for her towards the end of the most recent season, is understood to be "devastated" following Brandon' Blackstocks's death to skin cancer at the age of 48 although they've been divorced for two years.

And now insiders have claimed that Kelly, who has River Rose, 11, and nine-year-old Remy with Brandon, is taking time out of her career so she can focus on spending time with her children. A source told UsWeekly : "It has been draining, exhausting, emotional [and] devastating A big part of it was making her schedule available for transporting the children to visit Brandon, and all of the emotions that came with this difficult time. Kelly is a workhorse.

"Hard work is all she knows. She hates disappointing people, truly. The thing that kept her going was knowing how many people depend on her, like her crews and employees. Her kids come first, and she will find a way." It comes after Sharon Osbourne breaks down in tears at Ozzy's funeral in heartbreaking scenes.

READ MORE: How did Kelly Clarkson's ex-husband die? Heartbreaking final weeks with singer by his side

READ MORE: Brandon Blackstock’s daughter revealed pregnancy a month before dad died

The insider noted that Kelly, who shot to fame as the inaugural winner of American Idol more than 20 years ago, 'loves' her career but noted that 'nothing compares to a situation' like the one she has been presented with now. According to the insider, Kelly will make a comeback to her NBC television show at some point in the fall.

A representative for the family told PEOPLE in a statement that Brandon had been diagnosed with cancer over three years ago. They said in a statement: "It is with great sadness that we share the news that Brandon Blackstock has passed away."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."

Just one day after Brandon's passing was announced, sources close to the star explained that it had been for the benefit of her children that Kelly, known for her songs Since U Been Gone and Behind These Hazel Eyes, had always been protective and watchful of Brandon in his final years. One insider told People: "When she found out that he was sick, she remained protective of him for their sake. Kelly has always tried to keep things classy. It became clear earlier this year that Brandon was not doing well. She’s been devastated for the kids."

Earlier this week, Kelly postponed her Las Vegas residency after announcing that Brandon had been taken ill. Taking to Instagram, she wrote: "Unfortunately, I need to postpone the remainder of the August Studio Session dates in Las Vegas. "While I normally keep my personal life private, this past year, my children’s father has been ill and at this moment, I need to be fully present for them. I am sincerely sorry to everyone who bought tickets to the shows and I so appreciate your grace, kindness and understanding."

Brandon, whose stepmother was country legend Reba McEntire, also had two children from a previous marriage. In 2022, he became a grandfather after his eldest daughter gave birth to a son.

Brandon's father Narvel was Kelly's previous manager, with the former couple first meeting at a rehearsal for the Academy of Country Music Awards in 2006. After divorcing his first wife, Brandon reconnected with Kelly at the Super Bowl before the pair married in October 2013.

The talent manager, who managed Blake Shelton, took on Kelly as a client after their wedding, with Kelly telling Marie Claire in 2018: "I wouldn’t have hired Brandon to be my manager if I didn’t see first-hand how great he is at that and how much he cares about Blake.

"And the way that [Blake’s] career has blown up, I would have hired Brandon regardless. He’s really talented at what he does and his mind really does work in a completely different way.

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