KELLY Clarkson’s ex-husband and her former assistant were cohabiting at his $1.7 million ranch home in Montana before his death, The U.S. Sun can report.
Brandon Blackstock tragically died on August 7 at age 48 after a long battle with melanoma, his family confirmed.
The pair had two children during their almost seven-year marriage: daughter River Rose, now 11, and son Remington Alexander, 9, and had been co-parenting before his death.
Brandon’s obituary, released on Tuesday, revealed that he was in a relationship with Brittney Marie Jones, who got together with the former music manager after splitting from her husband.
Property records seen by The U.S. Sun reveal they were both residing at a four-bed, two-bath home nestled on more than 40 acres in Butte, Montana.
Brittney has been listed at the ranch since late 2024.
The U.S. Sun can confirm that Brittney was married to a Nashville-based drummer around 2022, when they celebrated their anniversary.
The then-husband wrote in an Instagram tribute, “It’s hard to believe it’s been a year since we said, ‘I do.’ People aren’t kidding when they say marriage is a commitment that brings a lot to the table.
“Something you get to experience with someone you love. I can not imagine a world without you by my side, a partner who is as real as they come.
“A lover, cuddler and sure spit fire. I am forever grateful I get to call you my wife. The up’s always come with the down and as long as I am breathing, I will always be the one you can count on to lift you up.
Happy 1 year anniversary babe. I love you.“
TOUCHING OBITUARY
The post is still visible on her ex’s Instagram profile, along with several touching photographs.
In a previous post, he also said he had “traveled, laughed, and spent countless adventures” with Brittney as she celebrated her 30th birthday.
Brandon Blackstock’s daughter Savannah announced she was pregnant just weeks before dad’s tragic death
The U.S. Sun could not confirm if and when the pair filed for divorce, and whether it has been finalized, and he did not respond when contacted for comment.
The ranch home, bought by Brandon in 2022, is a 4,800-square-foot custom-built property with vaulted ceilings, exposed beams, and custom finishes, according to an online description.
A DaVinci fireplace sets the stage for the “luxurious and chic style throughout, while expansive windows capture the panoramic views,” it adds.
Interesting details in the home include a bathroom and steam room attached to the master bedroom, along with safe and vault rooms.
It also boasts a heated workshop, a barn with a loft, a tack room, a greenhouse, and a three-car garage, along with a paved driveway leading to the main country road.
“After more than 20 years in the music business, Brandon found his way back to the mountains and the cowboy way of life he always wanted to live,” the obituary read.
“He found a homestead and a love in Butte, Montana.”
It continued: “Brandon, along with his beautiful and loving partner in life and business, Brittney Marie Jones, started building a life, building companies, and working tirelessly to create Headwaters Livestock Auction and what will live on as his legacy, The Valley View Rodeo in Bozeman, Montana.”
LEGAL BATTLE
The U.S. Sun was the first to reveal that the pair ran a rodeo together in December 2024, and that she had previously worked as his assistant.
The rodeo is described online as a multi-faceted organization dedicated to preserving the Western lifestyle in the modern day.
At the time of The U.S. Sun’s report, Brittney’s LinkedIn read: “I successfully assistant managed day to day for artist, Kelly Clarkson under manager, Brandon Blackstock in Los Angeles for music and television.
“After a change in management for Ms. Clarkson I transitioned to Executive Assistant for Mr. Blackstock’s cattle operation in Montana where I currently run the office and administration work.
“I also currently fulfill personal assistant duties for Mr. Blackstock.”
Brandon was married to Kelly from 2013 to 2020, and they had a prolonged legal battle after she filed for divorce.
One of the main issues was who would be able to claim her Montana ranch.
Kelly won ownership of the property but lost a legal battle that would have evicted Brandon from the home.
SPOUSAL SUPPORT
She later managed to sell the property, and he moved out.
Their divorce was finalized in March 2022, with Kelly agreeing to a one-time settlement of $1.3 million plus monthly spousal and child support payments.
Reports indicated Kelly had to pay spousal payments of $115,000 a month to her ex.
In 2023, Brandon was also ordered to pay Kelly over $2.6 million after losing a lawsuit alleging he mishandled her finances while serving as her manager.
After years of legal disputes, the couple withdrew all ongoing lawsuits in May 2024.
News of his death emerged shortly after Kelly announced she was postponing the remaining August dates of her Las Vegas residency due to her ex-husband’s illness.
A family representative said in a statement: “It is with great sadness that we share the news that Brandon Blackstock has passed away.
“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.”
