Kelly Clarkson's ex-husband Brandon Blackstock dies at 48: 'He passed away peacefully'

Brandon Blackstock, Kelly Clarkson 's ex-husband and the former stepson of Reba McEntire, has died. He was 48. "It is with great sadness that we share the news that Brandon Blackstock has passed away," a representative for the family told Fox News Digital in a statement. "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."

Born Dec. 19, 1976, Brandon Blackstock was the son of manager Narvel Blackstock and former stepson of singer Reba McEntire. Brandon worked as Kelly Clarkson’s manager as well as manager to Blake Shelton. Brandon met Kelly Clarkson for the first time in May 2006 when she was taking part in a rehearsal for the Academy of Country Music Awards. At that time, he was still married to his former wife, Melissa Ashworth.

The death news came a day after Clarkson revealed her ex-husband's health battle for which she had to abruptly defer her Las Vegas residency. “Unfortunately, I need to postpone the remainder of the August Studio Session dates in Las Vegas,” Clarkson, 43, wrote. “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.” Clarkson and Blackstock, 48, share two children together, River, 10, and Remington, 8.

“I am sincerely sorry to everyone who bought tickets to the shows, and I so appreciate your grace, kindness and understanding.” Her next performance at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace was scheduled for Friday, August 8.