In a candid revelation, Kelly Clarkson has shared painful details about hurtful comments regarding her appearance, made by her ex-husband and former manager, Brandon Blackstock. The divulgence comes amidst a financial dispute, shedding light on the challenges Clarkson faced behind the scenes during her tenure on The Voice.
Clarkson, who recently announced her permanent departure from the hit TV series after nearly eight years as a judge, disclosed Blackstock’s hurtful words during their tumultuous divorce last year. According to court documents cited by the New York Post, Clarkson revealed that Blackstock attempted to thwart her longtime aspiration of being a coach on The Voice. Allegedly, he conveyed to her that NBC executives deemed her unattractive for the role, expressing a preference for a “sex symbol” like Rihanna to join the panel. Blackstock reportedly emphasized the network’s desire for diversity, stating they “had to have someone that was black.”
The Grammy-winning artist admitted that these disparaging remarks had a lasting impact on her. “A wife doesn’t forget a time she gets told she’s not a sex symbol, so that stays,” she emphasized.
Despite the hurtful comments, Clarkson remained resilient, coaching numerous emerging singers from seasons 14 to 21 on The Voice. Even after announcing her permanent departure in May 2015 for a “fresh start,” as reported by USA Today, she briefly returned for Season 23 in 2023, showcasing her enduring commitment to her passion and craft.
The revelations not only shed light on the personal challenges faced by Clarkson but also underscore her determination to succeed in the face of adversity. As she navigates this new chapter in her career, the singer continues to be an inspiration for resilience and authenticity in the entertainment industry.
