How The Voice Cast Rallied Around Kelly Clarkson & Reba McEntire Amid Family Tragedy

Two key members of “The Voice” cast suffered a tragedy recently after Kelly Clarkson’s ex-husband and Reba McEntire’s stepson, Brandon Blackstock, passed away at the age of 48.

When speaking with US Weekly at the opening night of Broadway’s Jeff Ross: Take a Banana for the Ride in New York City on Monday, August 18, “The Voice” host Carson Daly detailed how they have been supporting the two through this tough loss.

“It’s been tough,” Daly said. “We all knew Brandon well, and we are a family.”

“I was working with [Reba] last week, everything was fresh, so we’ve just been sending our prayers and support to them,” he added. “It’s a terrible situation.”

“It’s really no different than what you would do for your family members,” Daly concluded. “You let them know you’re there, you’re praying for them [and] you’re giving them space at the same time.”

Blackstock passed away after a three-year battle with melanoma. He was previously married to Clarkson from 2013 to 2022, during which time the couple had two children: River Rose, 11, and Remington, 9. As for McEntire, she was married to Blackstock’s father, Narvel Blackstock, from 1989 to 2015.

Kelly Clarkson Set To Return To ‘The Voice’

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According to TMZ, Clarkson is set to return to “The Voice” as a coach. She reportedly skipped one taping for Season 29’s “Battle of Champions” in early August, which took place immediately after Blackstock’s death. She will join stars Adam Levine and John Legend as coaches for the season.

During the battle rounds where she was absent, Jennifer Hudson temporarily filled in.

Reba McEntire Posts Loving Tribute for Brandon Blackstock

McEntire took to Instagram after Blackstock’s death to post a sweet tribute to her stepson which included numerous photos of the two together.

“Last week, my stepson/oldest son Brandon Blackstock went home to be with God. His struggle is over and he is in eternal peace in God’s presence,” she wrote. “There is no one else like him, and I’m thankful for the time we had together. His legacy and laughter will be carried on through his family. Rest in peace cowboy. Happy trails to you til we meet again.”

News of Blackstock’s death was confirmed on Thursday, Aug. 7 in a statement from his family.

“It is with great sadness that we share the news that Brandon Blackstock has passed away,” the family said. “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.”