Introduction
A personal tragedy has led to an unprecedented production pause for two of NBC’s most popular coaches. Both Kelly Clarkson and Reba McEntire are temporarily stepping away from their roles on The Voice following the death of Brandon Blackstock, who was 48 years old. Blackstock was Clarkson’s ex-husband and McEntire’s former stepson.
Brandon Blackstock passed away on August 7th due to natural causes related to a long battle with melanoma. His death has deeply affected both singers, causing significant changes to the show’s schedule.
A Production Pause to Prioritize Family
Kelly Clarkson, who shares two young children with Blackstock, will not be present for upcoming tapings of The Voice: Battle of Champions. The show’s production team has confirmed that she is taking an extended break to grieve and support her children during this difficult time.
Sources close to the show stated that Clarkson’s family is her top priority right now, especially as her children navigate their profound loss and prepare for the new school year. Production is reportedly working to find a temporary replacement coach for her.
The impact of this loss also extends to Reba McEntire, a coach on The Voice‘s upcoming Season 28. According to sources, McEntire considered Blackstock her own son and is also expected to miss scheduled tapings for the knockout rounds.
The show’s producers have been fully supportive of both stars, giving them the space they need to heal. They’ve made it clear that there is no pressure for Clarkson or McEntire to rush back to the set.
Brandon Blackstock was a father of four, and this loss is being felt by a large, extended family with deep roots in the music industry. As the show finds a way to move forward, the focus remains on supporting the families involved during this incredibly challenging time.