Reba McEntire’s Unbreakable Love for Stepson Brandon Blackstock
Hi there, I’m Quinn Parker, and let me tell you I am buzzing like I had my tenth cup of coffee—grab a latte and dive in!
I’m still processing the news that Brandon Blackstock, beloved stepson of country music legend Reba McEntire, passed away at 48 after a courageous three-year fight against cancer. His family confirmed on August 7 that he died peacefully surrounded by loved ones, according to an official statement to NBC News. You might remember Brandon as Kelly Clarkson’s ex, but there’s so much more to his story and the rock-solid bond he shared with Reba.
Back in 1989, Reba married Narvel Blackstock and instantly welcomed his three children—Brandon, Chassidy, and Shawna—into the fold. She famously told The Boot in 2010 “I don’t consider Brandon, Chassidy, and Shawna stepchildren, I claim them all”—and she meant it. Over the years, she continually made it clear that her love for them ran deeper than any label.
Fast forward to 2013, when Kelly Clarkson and Brandon said “I do.” Reba couldn’t hide her excitement about gaining a superstar daughter-in-law. In an interview with Katie Couric, she gushed about first meeting Kelly at the 2002 American Idol finale and later hitting the road together—so frankly, Kelly felt like family years before that wedding aisle moment.
When little River Rose arrived in 2014, Reba’s “Grandma Reba” nickname was practically official. She tweeted, “Narvel and I are thrilled to pieces for you, Brandon, Savannah, and Seth!!!” Savannah and Seth were Brandon’s kids from his first marriage, and soon they all became a tight-knit crew. Two years later, Kelly and Brandon welcomed son Remington “Remy” Alexander in 2016, and Clarkson thanked Reba at the Kennedy Center Honors for being “a really rad grandma for my kids.” That public shout-out proved their family harmony was genuine.
Even after Reba and Narvel parted ways in 2015, her devotion to Brandon and his siblings never wavered. She told Entertainment Tonight in October 2021 that she couldn’t pick favorites—she loved both Brandon and Kelly equally. “Although he’s my stepson, I still love him like he’s my blood,” she shared, showing that legal definitions didn’t come close to capturing the depth of her feelings.
Just five months before Brandon’s death, the Blackstock clan—Reba, her partner Rex Linn, Brandon, Shelby, Chassidy, Shawna, Savannah, Seth, and more—gathered at the Houston Rodeo. Shelby posted an Instagram snapshot on March 5 celebrating how special it was to spend “cherished time with family.” It’s those glowing memories that now serve as a comfort for all who loved him.
Brandon’s courage, Reba’s unwavering support, and the family moments they shared paint a portrait of love that truly transcends biology. This isn’t just a story about loss; it’s a testament to bonds built on choice, loyalty, and endless pride. Okay, I need to breathe deep—my heart is racing from all these feels!
Sources: Celebrity Storm and NBC News, The Boot, Katie Couric interview, Entertainment Tonight
Attribution: Creative Commons Licensed
