Recent headlines have made Kelly Clarkson and estranged husband Brandon Blackstock’s divorce the subject of online fodder and countless rumors. The Voice coach and her ex have been handling most details behind closed doors. Despite this outlook, there have been some contentious issues between the former couple. While Clarkson has seemingly footed most of the bill, a recent court ruling agreed that one expense of Blackstock's will be his responsibility.
According to TMZ, Kelly Clarkson will pay her estranged husband $45,000 a month in child support and $150,000 in spousal support. In addition to paying these fees, Kelly Clarkson will handle the bulk of her and Brandon Blackstock’s children’s private school tuition by paying 70% of those fees, as well. But, there’s one financial expense the Grammy and Emmy winner won’t be responsible for: the former couple's ranch.
The judge reportedly ruled that Kelly Clarkson’s estranged husband will be responsible for all expenses associated with their Montana ranch. According to court documents, Brandon Blackstock is going to have to pay the ranch’s monthly expenses of $81,000, including taxes, mortgage, and insurance. The decision was fitting, given Blackstock currently uses the property as his primary residence. The duo originally purchased the Montana home in 2018.
The ruling in Clarkson’s favor marked a shift in their relationship. According to Us Weekly, Brandon Blackstock reportedly is in the process of leaving the entertainment business to become a full-time rancher. Blackstock supposedly told the judge he is no longer interested in music management. He even listed Kelly Clarkson’s fellow Voice coach, Blake Shelton, as his only remaining client, which signals a big lifestyle change for him.
In addition to ordering her estranged husband to pay for the ranch’s upkeep, court documents revealed Kelly Clarkson earned over $1.5 million per month compared to Brandon Blackstock’s $10,000. Blackstock managed his ex’s entire career for years before Clarkson filed for divorce after seven years of marriage, but they've since cut their business ties, with Blackstock's connection to the music industry lessening overall so that he can concentrate on ranching.
Throughout the divorce proceedings, Kelly Clarkson has been open while keeping some things private. She has spoken on certain topics such as awkward family holiday conversations and co-parenting with her estranged husband. Despite their efforts to iron things out, the divorce has been contentious at times, with allegations coming from both sides. The daytime talk show host has even received advice from divorcees, including First Lady Jill Biden and country music icon Garth Brooks. But, it seems like Clarkson and Brandon Blackstock are doing their best to keep things as civil as possible and find a middle ground.
With Brandon Blackstock now taking over the Montana ranch, maybe he and Kelly Clarkson will be able to wrap up their divorce proceedings sooner rather than later. Hopefully, the soon-to-be exes will find their peace once everything is said and done.
