Kelly Clarkson's legal battle with her ex-husband, talent manager Brandon Blackstock, continues to escalate as Blackstock responds to Clarkson's latest legal filing with a request to dismiss her claims. Clarkson alleges that Blackstock and his firm which includes his father and her former father-in-law, Starstruck Management, violated labor laws dating back to 2007, leading to a California labor commissioner ordering Blackstock to repay $2.6 million in commissions and fees.
In her March lawsuit, Clarkson sought more than the $2.6 million, asking for the return of all commissions, fees, profits, advances, producing fees, or other monies she paid on various deals, including those with The Voice, Wayfair, Norwegian Cruise Line, and the Billboard Music Awards.
Blackstock's response refutes all allegations in Clarkson's legal complaint, claiming that her suit lacks jurisdiction because she did not file a notice of appeal within 10 days after the labor commissioner's ruling. He also argues that the money he collected from those commissions was already paid into their joint assets, which were divided as part of their divorce settlement.
Clarkson and Blackstock were married in 2013 and finalized their divorce in 2022 after a contentious legal battle over property, child support, and Blackstock's challenge to their prenuptial agreement.
Clarkson was awarded primary custody of their two children and a ranch in Wyoming, while Blackstock received a $1.3 million settlement. Additionally, the court ordered Clarkson to pay $45,000 per month in child support and $115,000 per month in spousal support, which was set to end in January 2024.
Clarkson's legal filings against Blackstock indicate her determination to seek justice in their ongoing dispute. Despite the challenges she faces, Clarkson remains focused on her legal efforts, redirecting the energy she once put into being a coach on The Voice towards her court case.
Her request for a full accounting from Starstruck of all monies received in connection with her personal services demonstrates her commitment to resolving the financial aspects of their divorce.
Specifically she requested, “full and complete accounting from Starstruck of all monies received by Starstruck, directly or indirectly, in connection with any and all contracts, employment, or engagements pertaining in any way to the personal services of [Clarkson],” which includes commissions, fees, profits, advances and producing fees.
While the legal battle between Clarkson and Blackstock continues, the effects of this bitter divorce are undoubtedly taking a toll on both parties. Clarkson's efforts to seek justice and protect her interests highlight the complexities and challenges involved in high-profile divorces, especially when children and significant assets are involved.
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