Kelly Clarkson Shares Update on Kelly Clarkson Daughter River Rose Amid Talk Show Exit and Family Tragedy
Feb. 24, 2026 — New York Kelly Clarkson provided a positive update on her family life, including her Kelly Clarkson daughter River Rose, during a Today Show appearance on February 20, amid her announcement to end The Kelly Clarkson Show after seven seasons and following ex-husband Brandon Blackstock’s death in August 2025.
Clarkson, who moved to New York City with her children in 2023, stated,
“My grass is so green [right now]… [My family], we’re where we’re supposed to be.”
She announced the talk show exit on Instagram on February 2, explaining,
“This was not an easy decision, but this season will be my last hosting The Kelly Clarkson Show. Stepping away from the daily schedule will allow me to prioritize my kids, which feels necessary and right for this next chapter of our lives.”
Family Background
Kelly Clarkson’s daughter, River Rose Blackstock, born June 12, 2014 (age 11), and son Remington “Remy” Alexander Blackstock, born April 12, 2016 (age 9), shared the same father, Brandon Blackstock, who died from melanoma after a battle with cancer. The couple divorced in 2020 after marrying in 2013. Clarkson has emphasized co-parenting positively and shielding her Kelly Clarkson daughter from negativity.
River Rose, named for the family’s riverside home, was diagnosed with dyslexia young and inspired Clarkson’s children’s book River Rose and the Magical Lullaby. Clarkson described her Kelly Clarkson daughter as “bold,” “progressive,” and destined to “run a company one day.”
Recent Family Moments
On November 30, 2025, Clarkson shared a rare Instagram photo of River Rose and Remy ice skating at Rockefeller Center (30 Rock), captioned, “Ice skating at 30 Rock with the family ✅.” The image showed the children bundled up, with Remy waving.
In January 2026, Kelly Clarkson’s daughter River Rose performed an emotional rendition of “Piece by Piece” onstage, described as a heartfelt tribute.
Parenting Insights and Stage Appearances
In October 2025 on The Kelly Clarkson Show, Clarkson reflected on raising her Kelly Clarkson daughter:
“I look at my daughter constantly… I’m trying my best. I know you’re gonna end up in therapy one day… but I’m trying my best to limit it.”
River Rose previously joined her mother onstage for “Heartbeat Song” during the 2023 Las Vegas residency. At the Grammys, Reba McEntire noted, “Everybody’s hanging in there… We miss Brandon so much.”
Clarkson returns to The Voice as a judge for Battle of Champions, starting February 23, 2026.
