Kelly Clarkson’s Talk Show: Timeline of Absences and Postponed Episodes

Kelly Clarkson has been discreetly managing her ex-husband Brandon Blackstock’s health issues for several months, going public in August 2025 after she had to cancel multiple performances.

“While I usually keep my personal life under wraps, this past year has been challenging as my children’s father has been unwell, and right now, I need to be completely there for them,” Clarkson wrote in an August 2025 Instagram update, announcing the postponement of her Las Vegas residency.

Clarkson and Blackstock tied the knot in 2013. The former couple has a daughter, River Rose (born June 2014), and a son, Remy (born April 2016).

The American Idol champion filed for divorce from Blackstock in 2020. Their tumultuous separation, which involved a legal battle over finances and property, concluded two years later. Clarkson was granted full primary custody of their two children and moved the family to New York City.

Since their rocky breakup, fans have speculated that Clarkson made subtle references to her ex on multiple occasions, such as changing the lyrics to her song “Piece by Piece” in July 2025. However, a source told Us Weekly exclusively in April 2023 that the singer has reached a “great” place in her coparenting relationship with Blackstock.

“Things haven’t always been straightforward regarding their personal relationship,” the insider revealed at that time. “However, they have made significant progress and are managing their parenting responsibilities well.”

Continue reading for a timeline highlighting Clarkson’s recent canceled shows and absences:

March 2025

Clarkson had several unexpected absences from The Kelly Clarkson Show, with various celebrity hosts filling in.

Simu Liu stepped in as a guest host for two days before Clarkson returned. She then took another brief break, with Roy Wood Jr., Wanda Sykes, Brooke Shields, Molly Sims, and Willie Geist hosting.

At that time, sources widely reported that her absence was due to personal reasons, but no additional details were disclosed.

July 2025

Following her absences from the talk show, Clarkson announced via Instagram that she had to postpone her Las Vegas residency.

“We have been working around the clock to create the most intimate and extraordinary experience for my amazing fans,” she expressed in a social media statement. “I am incredibly thankful for your support, and I am heartbroken to announce a postponement of tonight and tomorrow’s opening at Caesars due to my voice being affected from the prep and rehearsals.”

The “Kelly Clarkson: Studio Sessions – The Las Vegas Residency” was scheduled for 18 performances, starting July 4 and concluding November 15.

“I want the shows to be perfect for you, and I must take this weekend and next week to rest to prevent any serious damage and ensure we can give you the quality you deserve. The show is truly amazing,” she added. “The musicians and singers are phenomenal, and I can’t wait to return next weekend and show you what we’ve been preparing.”

August 2025

Clarkson postponed the shows for a second time due to Blackstock’s illness, nearly a month after the series of performances began.

“Regrettably, I have to postpone the remaining Studio Session dates in Las Vegas for August,” she announced. “I am truly sorry to everyone who purchased tickets, and I greatly appreciate your understanding and kindness.”