Kelly Clarkson to keep professional name after divorce
‘I just kept my middle name for my personal life. I’m still Kelly Clarkson,’ singer said
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Kelly Clarkson says that she will continue to use “Clarkson” as her last name professionally, after legally changing it to Kelly Brianne.
The singer and talk-show host started legal proceedings to change her name in February this year, after separating from her husband, talent manager Brandon Blackstock, in 2020.
The former couple began divorce process in June of that year, citing “irreconcilable differences” as the reason for their split.
According to court documents obtained by Us, the 39-year-old singer has now finalised her legal name change to Kelly Brianne, weeks after her divorce was finalised.
“There being no objections, the petition for change of name is granted,” the documents state. “The Decree is signed and filed. The Petitioner’s name is changed from KELLY BRIANNE CLARKSON to KELLY BRIANNE.”
However, the singer has clarified that she will continue using Clarkson as her last name professionally.
“I just got divorced, so I had to drop my married last name,” the “Stronger” singer told People (the TV Show!). “I just kept my middle name for my personal life. I’m still Kelly Clarkson.”
“I don’t think I can change Clarkson at this point. I’m 20 years in,” she added.
Clarkson and Blackstock were married for nearly seven years before announcing their separation. They share two children: seven-year-old daughter River and son Remington, aged five.
Clarkson was declared legally single in September 2021 and was awarded primary physical custody of the children in November 2020.
Enjoy unlimited access to 100 million ad-free songs and podcasts with Amazon Music
Sign up now for a 4 month free trial (3 months for non-Prime members)
Enjoy unlimited access to 100 million ad-free songs and podcasts with Amazon Music
Sign up now for a 4 month free trial (3 months for non-Prime members)
On her talk show, the singer has been open about the realities of adjusting to being separated while still co-parenting, as well as revealing that her children were in therapy to deal with the transition.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments