In a recent and heartfelt update, Kelly Clarkson has opened up to her fans about her struggles with dating, years after her divorce from ex-husband Brandon Blackstock. The 43-year-old singer, who was performing at her residency show in Las Vegas, took a moment to connect with her audience, revealing the challenges she faces in the dating world. During a TikTok video filmed at the renowned Colosseum at Caesars Palace, Clarkson candidly stated, “Dating can be very difficult which is why I don’t.”
Clarkson’s description of her dating experiences resonated with many in the audience. She compared the pressures of dating while in the public eye to a "dumpster fire," humorously adding, “Add a spotlight and it’s like a … dumpster fire.” This metaphor struck a chord with fans, prompting relatable responses, such as one fan's comment, "I hear ya darlin'!" Another fan humorously quipped, "I don’t need a man. I need my margarita and my cheese."
Clarkson married her former manager, Brandon Blackstock, in 2013, and the couple welcomed two children: daughter River Rose, now 11, and son Remington, aged nine. Their relationship faced challenges, leading to their separation in 2020 and a prolonged divorce process that concluded in 2022. Following a contentious court battle over finances, property, and custody, Clarkson emerged with full primary custody of her children and relocated to New York City in search of a fresh start. In a 2023 interview with USA Today, she expressed, “I knew I needed a fresh start and couldn’t be in L.A. I really wanted to be in Montana, but you can’t really do a show from there quite yet. So I was like, The only other option would probably be New York.”
During a previous performance in Atlantic City, Clarkson reflected on her family history with relationships, revealing that difficult dynamics seem to run in the family. She shared that her parents divorced when she was just six years old, stating, “We learn from our parents, who learn from their parents. We keep repeating the same horrible sh*t over and over. Now, it turns out that I chose the same f-ing path.” This raw honesty not only highlights her vulnerability but also connects with fans who may share similar experiences.
Despite her busy schedule as a working mother, Clarkson is not slowing down. She recently launched a new collaboration with Wayfair, which includes a line of home goods that fans can appreciate. This collection features replicas of the rug she uses on stage during her Studio Sessions shows, along with furniture inspired by the 1970s, reminiscent of her stage set and her Montana party barn.
Looking ahead, Clarkson is set to return to her home state of Texas next month for a fundraising concert aimed at helping flood victims. The event will take place on August 17 at the Moody Center in Austin, where she will share the stage with notable artists such as Miranda Lambert, Lyle Lovett, and Cody Johnson.
As Clarkson continues to navigate her personal and professional life, her openness about the challenges of dating and family dynamics resonates deeply with her fans, reinforcing the connection she has built with her audience over the years.