Brandon Blackstock, ex-husband of Kelly Clarkson, died with seizures listed as a significant contributing factor according to his newly released death certificate. The talent manager’s three-year battle with melanoma culminated in his passing on August 7, 2025, with medical documentation now revealing previously undisclosed complications.
Blackstock, a prominent figure in the music industry and stepson of country star Reba McEntire, passed away at age 48 in Butte-Silver Bow County, Montana. His death certificate, obtained by People magazine and verified by TMZ, shows he died at 11:13 AM local time with seizures noted as a ‘significant condition contributing to death’ alongside metastatic melanoma.
The document indicates no autopsy was performed before Blackstock’s cremation, confirming details his family had kept private during initial announcements. Medical experts note seizures often occur in advanced melanoma cases when cancer spreads to the brain, suggesting potential neurological complications in his final days. This aligns with reports of his prolonged health decline over his three-and-a-half-year cancer battle.
News of the seizures’ role emerged just one week after his death, explaining why Clarkson abruptly postponed her Las Vegas residency in late July. Sources close to the singer confirmed she needed to prioritize co-parenting their children River (10) and Remington (8) as Blackstock’s condition deteriorated. The timing suggests seizures may have represented a sudden downturn in his prognosis.
The revelation has sparked renewed discussion about melanoma awareness, with cancer organizations noting this high-profile case highlights the disease’s potential neurological impacts. Blackstock’s death certificate specifically distinguishes the seizures as contributing to but not causing his death, maintaining melanoma as the underlying condition.
Entertainment industry colleagues have responded with fresh tributes, emphasizing Blackstock’s legacy as a talent manager who shaped careers beyond his famous marriage. His brother Shelby Blackstock posted emotional remembrances online, while Reba McEntire’s team issued statements honoring his memory.
Legal documents show Blackstock was in a relationship with Kelly Clarkson’s former assistant Brittney Jones at the time of his death, though Jones hasn’t commented publicly. Estate matters remain private, with Clarkson expected to maintain primary custody of their children per previous divorce agreements.
Medical advocates are using this development to promote skin cancer screening initiatives, noting Blackstock’s case illustrates how quickly melanoma can progress. His family has not announced memorial plans but requests continued privacy as they process these new medical revelations.