Kelly Clarkson Wanted Her Kids to Have ‘Best Relationship Possible’ With Late Ex After ‘Messy’ Divorce

Kelly Clarkson worked hard to foster a relationship between her children and their father after their tumultuous split.

The “Stronger” singer, 43, who shares kids River, 11, and Remington, 9, with her late ex-husband, Brandon Blackstock, “always wanted her kids to have the best relationship possible” with him, a source told People.

While their 2022 divorce was “messy,” “painful” and overall “incredibly difficult” for her, the source said that she “never spoke poorly” about her ex to their children.

“When she found out that he was sick, she remained protective of him for their sake,” continued the source. “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.”

As Star previously reported, the talent manager passed away on Thursday, August 7, after a three-year battle with melanoma. He was 48.

Prior to his passing, Clarkson postponed the remainder of her August shows for her Las Vegas residency.

“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,” she shared via Instagram on August 6. “I am sincerely sorry to everyone who bought tickets to the shows and I so appreciate your grace, kindness and understanding.”