Kelly Clarkson Staying ‘Grounded’ For Her Kids As They Mark First Christmas Without Brandon Blackstock

This past Christmas was the first Kelly Clarkson’s children celebrated without their father, Brandon Blackstock — and according to a new report, the “Because of You” singer, 43, wanted to “make things as steady and loving as possible” for daughter River Rose, 11, and son Remington Alexander, 9, over the holidays.

“Kelly is obviously heartbroken for her kids. Losing their dad is incredibly painful and confusing,” a source told People in a story published on Friday, January 2. “But she’s also very grounded. She’s not someone who falls apart. She looks at life realistically and does everything she can do to make things as steady and loving as possible for her kids.”

As Star previously reported, Blackstock died on August 7 at age 48 following a private three-year battle with melanoma. In the wake of his tragic passing, Clarkson became focused on “protecting and nurturing” their children through the grief, a source told Star at the time, and the holidays were no different.

The American Idol alum’s “focus is to be present for her kids,” the source told People, adding “she’s a great mom.”

Despite their acrimonious 2022 divorce, Clarkson was “protective” of the late talent manager too after he fell ill, per a People report published in August.

“When she found out that he was sick, she remained protective of him for their [children’s] sake,” their source explained. “Kelly has always tried to keep things classy. It became clear earlier this year that Brandon was not doing well. She’s been devastated for the kids.”