Kelly Clarkson and Brandon Blackstock divorced primarily due to "irreconcilable differences," as cited in their divorce filing in 2020. Their nearly seven-year marriage ended amid rising tensions and challenges, including issues of trust and difficulties in co-parenting. Kelly later revealed in a 2023 podcast that she felt "very limited" and unhappy in the marriage, suggesting they were not on the same path and not working well together despite being in love. The legal process was contentious, involving custody and property disputes, and the divorce was finalized in 2022. Despite everything, Kelly stayed supportive during Brandon's battle with cancer, which he fought privately for over three years before passing in 2025. It was later revealed Brandon had been in a relationship with Kelly's former personal assistant, which caused her further hurt after their divorce.