Kelly Clarkson’s Christmas Album Sparks Speculation Over Subtle Nod to Ex-Husband Brandon Blackstock
Kelly Clarkson’s holiday season took a playful turn with the release of the official visualizer for her 2021 album, When Christmas Comes Around… Again. Unveiled on December 18, the visualizer features a warm fireplace scene with stockings for Clarkson and her children—River Rose and Remington Alexander—hung in festive anticipation. A fourth stocking labeled “Nope,” however, has caught fans’ attention, fueling speculation that it’s a lighthearted dig at her ex-husband, Brandon Blackstock.
While Kelly Clarkson hasn’t directly commented on the meaning of the “Nope” stocking, the imagery has stirred conversations online, adding a layer of intrigue to the already popular holiday project. The playful touch aligns with Clarkson’s candid and often humorous approach to life’s challenges, especially during her publicized divorce from Blackstock.
The divorce, finalized in 2022, marked the end of a seven-year marriage that faced legal battles over financial arrangements and business dealings. As part of the settlement, Clarkson agreed to pay $45,601 per month in child support for their two children and a one-time payment of $1.3 million to Blackstock. Despite these terms, the disputes didn’t end there.
During the divorce proceedings, Blackstock’s management company, Starstruck, filed a lawsuit against Clarkson, alleging unpaid fees for their role in advancing her career. Clarkson countered with a complaint to California’s Labor Commissioner, arguing that Starstruck and Blackstock violated the state’s Talent Agencies Act by operating as unlicensed talent agents while booking her deals.
In a significant win for Clarkson, the Labor Commissioner ruled in her favor, ordering Blackstock to repay over $2.6 million in commissions. The judgment addressed transactions that included her high-profile role on The Voice. However, the legal battle persisted, with Blackstock and Starstruck appealing the ruling in court, requesting a decision from a Los Angeles judge.
Amid these challenges, Clarkson has remained resilient, channeling her experiences into her music and projects. Her holiday album, laced with themes of love, heartbreak, and renewal, reflects her ability to turn personal trials into creative triumphs. The visualizer, with its enigmatic “Nope” stocking, serves as a subtle yet powerful reminder of her journey.
For fans, Clarkson’s ability to balance humor, strength, and vulnerability continues to solidify her place as a relatable and authentic artist, especially during the holiday season.
