Kelly Clarkson Talks Motherhood and Marriage: ‘Wine Is Necessary’
Nearly 16 years after Kelly Clarkson earned the first American Idol crown, she’s now the one spotting new talent as a coach on Season 14 of The Voice. The “Piece by Piece” singer, 35, had been on the hit show’s wish list for a while, but she was busy starting a family with husband Brandon Blackstock. “I had to have babies!” says the mom of daughter River Rose Blackstock, 3, and son Remington Blackstock, 22 months.
But raising four kids (including Brandon’s children, Savannah and Seth Blackstock) can be “challenging,” Kelly admits. “Wine is necessary!” She recently opened up to InTouch about parenthood, her new show, and how even idols have idols — scroll down to read more about Kelly!
You and Brandon have four kids at home in Nashville! How are they?
They’re great. Kids teach you to be a better human because they’re watching every moment. They’ll call you out and say stuff where you’re like, “Damn!”
What’s the biggest lesson they’ve taught you?
Perspective, being less egocentric. In our industry, everyone is always applauding you — or talking bad about you — and it’s hard to not drink the punch. My kids taught me to look around and notice the things that are really important, even if it’s just hanging with them.
How has parenthood affected your marriage?
It’s sexy… to see a dad engaged with his kids! It’s very easy with how busy we are not to be engaged, but we both really challenge each other and make sure each of us is present [for the kids].
You’ve made it work for nearly five years now.
We have — [but] we always [forget our anniversary]!
Kelly and Brandon. (Photo Credit: Getty Images)
Really?!
We’re the worst! Someone will email us, “Happy Anniversary,” and we’re like, “Uh-oh!” I feel like every day of our lives something amazing or special happens, so every day we’re kind of celebrating. But at least we [forget] together!
Would you say your family is complete now?
Absolutely. Yeah, we have a band!
How excited were you to join The Voice?
It sounds like the Hallmark Channel, but it’s one of my [best experiences ever]. Especially with the younger ones on my team, it’s nice to be somebody in their corner.
It must be cool to give back, because you got your big break on this kind of show.
I’ve definitely come full circle. I was so young when I started. I would’ve loved to have had someone looking out for me rather than making money off of me.
Are you holding your own against the guy judges?
Hell yes I am! I’m a whole lotta woman!
What was your childhood nickname?
Kell-bell.
Which celebrity has made you the most starstruck?
Meryl Streep [on the Golden Globes red carpet, which was caught on live TV]! I was humiliated when I watched it back. But she touched my face y’all!
Biggest splurge purchase?
Anything for our farm. All of our tractors are expensive.
(Photo Credit: Getty Images)
What did you have for breakfast this morning?
A spinach and turkey sausage muffin. I don’t cook! We have a chef named Lisa and she makes these amazing things.
Most embarrassing song in your iTunes library?
I don’t find it embarrassing but I feel like people do: I love Michael Bolton! I think he’s insanely talented and I still listen to his records!
This article originally appeared on our sister site, Closer Weekly.
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