Reba McEntire is mourning the loss of Brandon Blackstock. Blackstock, who was 48 years old when he passed away from cancer earlier this week, is the former stepson of Reba. He is the son of Narvel Blackstock, Reba's husband from 1989 to 2015. Although their marriage ended, the Grand Ole Opry member says she still loved Brandon, just as much as if he was her own son.
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"Brandon's been my son forever it seems," McEntire tells Entertainment Tonight in a 2021 interview, amid news of Brandon's split from Kelly Clarkson. "Although he's my stepson, I still love him like he's my total -- my blood, so I'm praying for them both 'cause I love them both."
McEntire also says that their divorce did not change her feelings for either of them.
"Kelly and I do talk," McEntire says. "We text ,and I love them both. And so, I can't play favorites because I've been a friend of Kelly for a long time."
What Happened To Brandon Blackstock
Brandon quietly battled cancer for three years, a detail that was revealed when his family announced his passing.
"It is with great sadness that we share the news that Brandon Blackstock has passed away," the family says 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."
Brandon and Kelly shared two children, 11-year-old daughter River, and son Remington, who is 9. Brandon also has two older children from a previous relationship.
Shortly before Brandon's passing was announced, Kelly announced a change in her schedule. She said that she was postponing dates on her Studio Sessions Las Vegas residency to be with her daughter and son.
"Unfortunately, I need to postpone the remainder of the August Studio Session dates in Las Vegas," Clarkson writes. "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," she adds. "And I so appreciate your grace, kindness and understanding."
