Kelly Clarkson Postpones Her Las Vegas Residency amid Family Emergency

A sudden change of plans has put Kelly Clarkson’s Las Vegas shows on hold. The decision, shared with fans this week, points to an urgent situation unfolding behind the scenes.

Kelly Clarkson is stepping away from the stage to focus on her family. On Wednesday, August 6, the Grammy-winning singer announced the postponement of her Las Vegas residency due to a family health emergency. In a statement shared on Instagram, Clarkson revealed that her ex-husband, Brandon Blackstock, has been ill.

Clarkson announced that the remaining August dates of her Las Vegas Studio Sessions would be postponed. She shared that Blackstock has been ill over the past year and said she now needs to focus on being fully present for their children during this time.

Following her announcement, fans quickly responded with support. One wrote, "I'm glad she's prioritizing her kids while their father addresses his health issue. Despite the difficulties he caused, I genuinely wish him the best for his recovery."

Others echoed the sentiment. "The kids come first." One commenter noted, "It takes a very special person to be this mature after the things he put her through. I'm glad she's putting her kids’ wellbeing first."

Several expressed concern for the seriousness of the situation. "It must be serious for her to say this. I hope she and the kids can get through how this effects[sic] them with support, grace, and love."

Messages of empathy also poured in. "I feel your pain and I truly understand your decision. I hope everything turns out well. I love you," one person wrote. Another added, "❤️🙏🏼 I'm so sorry for what you're going through. Prayers he gets better and for your whole family. Family comes before anything else [sic]."

Not all comments were lengthy. "That's so sad sorry," one simply stated. Another reacted with, "That's insane." As of now, no rescheduled dates have been announced. Clarkson has also not shared further details.

The singer had already encountered difficulties with her Las Vegas residency before the latest postponement. On July 4, Clarkson canceled the opening night of her "Studio Sessions" just 90 minutes before showtime, citing vocal strain.

The announcement came as fans gathered at the Colosseum at Caesars Palace, many unaware until shortly before the performance was set to begin. In a statement on Instagram, Clarkson said the intense preparation and rehearsals had "taken a toll" on her voice.

She explained that the team had worked around the clock to create an intimate and extraordinary experience and that she needed time to rest to protect her voice from long-term damage.

She also praised her band and promised a strong return once fully recovered. However, a source later revealed that the situation may be more complex. Speaking to Page Six, the insider described Clarkson's personal life as "insanely complicated," noting that she is dealing with "serious hidden battles" causing both emotional and physical strain.

Some of those challenges appear to stem from her past relationship. Clarkson shares two children with Blackstock — River, 10, and Remington, 8. The two finalized their divorce in 2022 after a lengthy legal battle. As part of the settlement, Clarkson agreed to a one-time payment to Blackstock and ongoing monthly child support.

She began paying $45,601 per month for the care of their two children. The agreement also included a mutual decision to vaccinate the children against COVID-19 at the time.

The emotional toll of the split found its way into her music. While creating her album "Chemistry," Clarkson described the writing process as a necessary outlet during a painful chapter in her life.

"It was really delving into what happened in my life and why, and what am I going to do about it?" she said. She spoke candidly about the challenges of divorce, describing the process as emotionally isolating.

Clarkson called the ability to express herself through music "a blessing," adding that it helped her manage overwhelming emotions like depression and grief.

Releasing the album felt empowering. "I'm taking my power back," she said, crediting therapy with helping her gain perspective and tools to navigate both life and relationships.

In a 2023 appearance on the "Angie Martinez IRL" podcast, Clarkson reflected on the record as a full account of her recent years. While much of it was shaped by heartbreak, she noted that it also captured "magical moments."

Kelly Clarkson shared that she had once been deeply in love and described the pain of that love ending as something that "rips you apart." Clarkson also emphasized that divorce is rarely a sudden decision. She said it often comes after years and years of trying to make things work, before realizing it no longer can.