Kelly Clarkson Shares First Words After Loss in Montana

Kelly Clarkson hasn’t had an easy go of things lately. A few weeks ago, her ex-husband, Brandon Blackstock, died in Butte after a long battle with melanoma. And now, for the first time, Kelly has spoken out on social media.

Read More: Kelly Clarkson's Support For Brandon Blackstock During His Illness

She didn’t surprise-drop a Vegas announcement or promo for The Voice. Nope, she kept it simple. She celebrated the 23rd anniversary of her American Idol victory by thanking fans who voted for her all those years back. That’s a big moment, but knowing what she’s been carrying makes it land harder.

Butte Rodeo Roots

Here’s the Montana link that doesn’t get enough talk. Brandon didn’t run back to L.A. after the split. He stayed right here in Big Sky Country. He sold the ranch and built a life in Butte. And it wasn’t just some quiet getaway. The man put together full-blown rodeo. Cowboys, broncs, the whole shooting match.

Kelly Puts Family First

Through it all, Kelly hit the brakes on her career. She rescheduled shows, stepped away from TV tapings, and canceled appearances so she could be with her kids while Brandon fought cancer. Her priorities couldn’t have been clearer, and that move says it all.

After months of silence, Kelly has made her first appearance on social media. Thinking about her experience on American Idol.

To everyone that took time 23 years ago to call in and vote for me, thank you 🙏 Winning American Idol changed my life and I will be forever grateful for all of you that have supported me for so many years. It is a gift to find your purpose and passion, and to be able to make a living doing it is the cherry on top.