Kelly Clarkson has opened up about a meaningful backstage moment she shared with Dolly Parton during one of the most emotional days of her personal life.
During a recent appearance on the Las Culturistas podcast, Clarkson recalled learning that her divorce from Brandon Blackstock had been finalized about 30 minutes before she performed I Will Always Love You at the 2022 Academy of Country Music Awards. The performance was part of a tribute to Parton.
Clarkson said she encountered Parton backstage while preparing to take the stage and briefly explained that she was dealing with a major personal moment. She did not reveal exactly what Parton told her, but described their conversation as beautiful and said the exchange helped her feel grounded.
Clarkson and Blackstock separated in 2020, with their divorce finalized in 2022. Blackstock died in August 2025 following a battle with cancer.
Clarkson also remembered Parton as someone who could make people feel close to her even without knowing her for many years.