Reba McEntire broke down in tears on October 27 during The Voice knockouts. A contestant’s emotional performance about cancer triggered memories of her stepson Brandon Blackstock. Brandon died on August 7, 2025 after battling melanoma. This marked Reba’s first public moment sharing her grief.
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🔥 Quick Facts:
- Brandon died August 7, 2025 after a private battle with melanoma at age 48
- Reba was married to his father Narvel Blackstock from 1989-2015
- Brandon managed Kelly Clarkson and was the father of their two children
- The emotional moment aired during Season 28 knockouts on October 27, 2025
- Reba has coached on The Voice since the show began
How It All Unfolded on Stage
During The Voice knockouts, contestant Aubrey Nicole from Team Reba performed Martina McBride’s song ‘I’m Gonna Love You Through It.’ The performance was deeply personal. Aubrey dedicated the cancer-themed ballad to her own father’s struggle.
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Reba listened intently as her fellow judge Snoop Dogg sat beside her. When the song concluded, Reba’s emotions overwhelmed her completely. Snoop immediately offered tissue. Reba accepted, her voice trembling with tears.
“I lost my oldest son because he did not win with cancer. That was a real reminder that life goes on, and we sing songs about it so we can remember the ones around us that we love so much.”
Brandon’s Three-Year Cancer Battle
Brandon Blackstock was a 48-year-old talent manager based in Butte, Montana. His cancer diagnosis came three years before his death. Despite his private nature, those close knew of his determined fight.
He spent his final months at his Montana ranch where he raised horses and ran rodeo events. Brandon chose that location specifically to stay private. On August 7, 2025, he passed peacefully at home. His family surrounded him during his final days.
Brandon was previously married to Kelly Clarkson, the American Idol winner. They shared two children together: daughter River, 11, and son Remington, 9. Despite their contentious divorce, Kelly remained supportive through his illness.
Reba’s Long Bond With Brandon
| Timeline Entry | Details |
|---|---|
| 1989 | Reba married Narvel Blackstock, Brandon’s father |
| ~1989 | Brandon was approximately 4 years old when Reba entered his life |
| 1989-2015 | Reba helped raise Brandon along with his siblings Shawna and Chassidy |
| 2015 | Reba and Narvel divorced after 26 years of marriage |
| August 7, 2025 | Brandon died peacefully at his Montana home surrounded by family |
Reba shared that Brandon brought immense joy wherever he went. She called him her “oldest son” publicly. Their bond transcended the traditional stepparent-stepchild relationship. Reba said Brandon was “precious” and “sorely missed.”
Earlier in October, she told People magazine that Brandon’s mischievousness and love of life made him unforgettable. She emphasized his legacy and his impact on everyone around him. Reba wrote in an Instagram post: “His legacy and laughter will be carried on through his family.”
Grief, Perspective, and Life After Loss
Reba’s emotional moment on The Voice showed raw, honest grieving in public. She didn’t hide her pain or her tears. Instead, she used the moment to connect with Aubrey Nicole about loss and resilience.
Kelly Clarkson also mourned Brandon’s passing deeply. She postponed her Las Vegas residency shows in August. She took time away from her talk show to process the loss. The family united in grief, releasing a statement about Brandon’s brave three-year cancer battle.
Snoop Dogg’s gentle gesture of offering tissues showed the compassionate environment on The Voice set. The moment resonated across social media. Fans appreciated Reba’s vulnerability and her tribute to her beloved stepson during live television.
What’s Next for the Country Icon?
As Season 28 of The Voice continues into November, Reba carries Brandon’s memory forward. The show’s finale is scheduled for December 16, 2025. Reba remains one of the show’s most beloved coaches.
- The Voice airs Monday nights at 8 PM ET on NBC
- Episodes stream next day on Peacock streaming service
- Season 28 features coaches Reba, Snoop Dogg, Michael Bublé, and Niall Horan
- The show has become a platform for Reba to mentor young artists
- Reba’s career spans over five decades in country music
Reba McEntire’s emotional on-air moment serves as a powerful reminder about loss. Her willingness to share grief publicly honors Brandon’s memory. She continues to inspire audiences both through music and through her authentic humanity during difficult times. How are you coping with important losses in your own life?
Sources
- Page Six – Reporting on Reba’s breakdown and Brandon’s cancer death
- USA Today – Coverage of Reba’s emotional Voice moment over stepson
- People Magazine – Exclusive details on Reba’s relationship with Brandon
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Daniel Harris is a specialist journalist focused on the crossroads of breaking news, extraordinary history, and enduring legends. With a background in historical research and storytelling, he blends timely reporting with timeless narratives, making complex events and ancient myths resonate with today’s readers. Daniel’s work often uncovers surprising links between present-day headlines and legendary tales, offering unique perspectives that captivate diverse audiences. Beyond reporting, he is passionate about preserving oral traditions and exploring how extraordinary stories continue to shape culture and identity.