Reba McEntire Breaks Silence on Kelly Clarkson’s Kids After Brandon Blackstock’s Tragic Death — and What She Revealed Left Everyone in Tears at the Emmys!

Country music icon Reba McEntire opened up about how Kelly Clarkson’s children are coping following the recent death of their father, Brandon Blackstock, during an emotional red-carpet interview at the 77th Primetime Emmy Awards. Speaking with Entertainment Tonight’s Cassie DiLaura, McEntire revealed that the tragedy has brought the entire extended family closer together.

Brandon Blackstock, Reba’s former stepson and Clarkson’s ex-husband, passed away unexpectedly earlier this year, leaving behind their two children, River Rose (10) and Remington Alexander (8). McEntire, who was married to Brandon’s father, Narvel Blackstock, for over two decades, has remained close to both Kelly and her grandchildren through the years.

“They’re strong little ones,” Reba said tenderly when asked about how the kids are handling their father’s passing. “Kelly’s doing an amazing job helping them through it. It’s hard — losing a parent always is — but they’ve got so much love around them. That makes a world of difference.”

The Fancy singer added that she’s been in close contact with Kelly since the tragedy. “I talk to Kelly pretty often. She’s a great mom — she’s keeping things steady, keeping the laughter alive for those kids. Brandon would’ve wanted that.”

McEntire, who appeared at the Emmys alongside her longtime partner Rex Linn, also shared that family and faith have been her anchors during this difficult time. “We’ve all been leaning on each other,” she explained. “When something like this happens, you hold tight to the people who remind you what life’s about — love, kindness, and showing up for one another.”

Despite the emotional topic, McEntire’s evening wasn’t without joy. The 69-year-old star was there to honor The Golden Girls during a special Emmy tribute and hinted at what fans can expect from her hit sitcom, Happy’s Place. “We’ve got some incredible guest stars coming up — Christopher Lloyd and Carol Kane,” Reba teased. “They’re legends, and they brought so much fun and heart to the set. Rex and I had the best time filming with them.”

Linn, who stood proudly beside her, praised Reba’s strength both on and off the screen. “She’s got this incredible ability to balance laughter and heart, even when life gets tough,” he said. “That’s something I admire every day.”

As the conversation circled back to family, McEntire reflected on the importance of staying grounded in love, even amid grief. “What I’ve learned is that kids heal best when they feel safe and surrounded by love,” she said. “Kelly’s creating that for River and Remy — and I couldn’t be prouder of her.”

Before heading into the awards ceremony, McEntire smiled softly and added one final thought: “Brandon’s memory will always live on through those kids. They’ve got his spark, his humor, and his big heart. That’s something we’ll all cherish forever.”

The moment captured exactly what fans have come to love about Reba McEntire — her honesty, warmth, and unwavering devotion to family, no matter the heartbreak.