Kelly Clarkson Reveals Why She’s Steering Clear of the Dating Scene

Kelly Clarkson is cautiously approaching the dating scene again. The celebrated singer and television host, who recently began a Las Vegas residency following an extended break from performing, shared her thoughts on dating after her divorce from Brandon Blackstock.

During a performance in her recent residency, Clarkson opened up about the challenges of dating, as captured in a TikTok video. “Dating is already tough, and under the public eye, it turns into a complete mess,” she shared with her audience.

Clarkson initiated her divorce proceedings in 2020 after a marriage of almost seven years. The separation led to protracted disputes over financial matters, property, and the custody of their two young children. The divorce was officially completed in March 2022. Clarkson and Blackstock co-parent their two children: 11-year-old daughter River Rose and 9-year-old son Remington “Remy.”

Clarkson has previously mentioned that her children prefer her not to date anyone else and that she is currently content with being single. In an interview with KOST 103.5 last autumn, she revealed, “They often say, ‘Please, don’t be with anyone else.’ It’s difficult for them to imagine me with anyone but their father.” However, she has made it clear to them that she won’t remain single indefinitely. “I’ve told them, ‘I love you, but Mommy needs affection too,’” she explained.

Regarding her aspirations for a future relationship, Clarkson emphasized the need for a partner who is self-sufficient. “I was on my own until I was about 30, and I had forgotten how good I am at being independent. I mentioned to a friend that any future partner would need to be someone who has their own life and doesn’t depend on me for anything,” she told PEOPLE in a 2024 cover story.