Dolly Parton has provided advice to Kelly Clarkson and Reba McEntire on how to cope with the loss of Brandon Blackstock, their late stepson and ex-husband, respectively. In an interview with Entertainment Tonight, the country superstar emphasized the importance of focusing on the positive aspects of their relationship with Blackstock, encouraging them to carry his energy forward and honor his memory.
Clarkson, who was Blackstock’s ex-wife and the mother of his two youngest children, and McEntire, who was his former stepmother, are navigating the emotional aftermath of his death. Parton, who is also mourning her husband, Carl Dean, after his passing earlier this year, expressed her support for both women, although she has not had the chance to speak with them yet.
McEntire took to Instagram to pay tribute to Blackstock, sharing a carousel of photos that captured their time together. She described him as her ‘blood’ family, highlighting her deep emotional connection to him and the enduring impact of his life.
Blackstock passed away at the age of 48 from melanoma, a form of skin cancer. His death was confirmed by the Silver Bow County Coroner, who noted that he passed away peacefully at his home in Butte, Montana under hospice care, surrounded by his loved ones. He leaves behind his parents, siblings, and four children: Savannah, Seth, River Rose, and Remington.