Lionel Richie Performs Grief Exorcism on Kelly Clarkson After Ex Brandon Blackstock’s Death: ‘I Can Save You’
The world watched as Kelly Clarkson courageously opened up about her journey through grief following the heartbreaking death of her ex-husband, Brandon Blackstock. In a deeply moving episode of The Kelly Clarkson Show, the iconic singer and talk show host invited legendary musician Lionel Richie to discuss his memoir Truly. What unfolded was more than just a conversation about life and loss—it became a powerful moment of healing and emotional release, highlighted by Richie’s unique “grief exorcism” that left Clarkson feeling renewed.
The Healing Power of Grief: Lionel Richie’s Grief Exorcism on Kelly Clarkson
Grief is a deeply personal and often unpredictable experience, and Kelly Clarkson’s candid reflections revealed just how differently people process loss. During her heartfelt dialogue with Lionel Richie, she quoted from his memoir, saying, “Grief is the great teacher of what matters most.” This poignant statement resonated with viewers and underscored the universal truth that grief, while painful, can also lead to profound growth and clarity.
Richie, 76, shared his perspective on grief, emphasizing that it’s impossible to prepare for the loss of a loved one. “You can’t rehearse grief. You can’t rehearse the loss of your mother or your father or a friend,” he explained. His words struck a chord with Clarkson, who described grief as something that “hits you in waves.” This shared understanding created a space for vulnerability and connection between the two artists.
In a surprising and touching gesture, Richie stood up and placed his hand on Clarkson’s forehead, performing what he called a “grief exorcism.” This symbolic act was meant to help release the heavy emotions weighing on Clarkson’s heart. “I feel healed,” Clarkson joked afterward, but the moment was undeniably powerful, symbolizing hope and the possibility of renewal even in the darkest times.
Kelly Clarkson’s Journey Through Loss and Renewal
Kelly Clarkson’s grief journey has been closely followed by fans and media alike, especially after the passing of Brandon Blackstock in August 2025. Blackstock, who battled melanoma privately for three years, died at the age of 48, leaving behind Clarkson and their two children, daughter River and son Remington. The couple’s relationship had been complex, marked by their divorce in March 2022, but Clarkson’s devotion to Blackstock in his final days was evident as she stepped away from her daytime talk show and Las Vegas residency to care for him.
Clarkson’s healing process has been symbolized by her choice of meaningful jewelry, such as the Le Stelle Tarot Card pendant she wore at LAX airport. The Star card is a symbol of hope, inspiration, and rejuvenation, reminding her—and others—that even in the darkest moments, light and new opportunities can emerge. This emblem of positivity aligns with the message Richie conveyed during their conversation: grief, while painful, can lead to a deeper understanding of love and self.
The singer’s openness about her grief has also highlighted the importance of protecting her children during this difficult time. Sources close to Clarkson revealed that she has been “devastated” for her kids but remains committed to maintaining a sense of stability and grace for their sake. This protective instinct adds another layer to her emotional journey, showing the strength required to navigate loss while caring for others.
Why Lionel Richie’s Approach to Grief Resonates
Lionel Richie’s approach to grief is both spiritual and practical. By acknowledging the uncontrollable nature of grief and encouraging letting go, he offers a path toward acceptance and self-discovery. Richie’s memoir Truly delves into these themes, sharing his personal experiences with loss and the lessons learned along the way.
His “grief exorcism” might seem unconventional, but it symbolizes the importance of confronting grief head-on rather than suppressing it. This act of compassion and healing resonated deeply with Clarkson and viewers alike, reminding us that sometimes, emotional release is the first step toward recovery.
Moreover, Richie’s message that “if it hurts so badly, that means you love so deeply” reframes grief as a testament to the strength of our bonds. This perspective encourages those grieving to embrace their pain as a reflection of meaningful connections rather than something to fear or avoid.
Conclusion: Embracing Healing and Hope After Loss
Kelly Clarkson’s emotional conversation with Lionel Richie offers a powerful reminder that grief, while intensely personal and challenging, can also be a transformative experience. Richie’s grief exorcism and their shared reflections highlight the importance of facing loss with openness, compassion, and hope. For anyone navigating the difficult path of grief, their story encourages embracing the pain as a teacher and a gateway to healing.
If you or someone you know is struggling with grief, remember that healing is possible. Reach out, share your feelings, and allow yourself the grace to grow through the experience. For more inspiring stories and expert insights on coping with loss, stay connected with our latest updates.
Take the first step toward healing today—because even in the darkest times, there is always light ahead.
