Kelly Clarkson looked back on her 2002 American Idol victory in her first Instagram update since the unfortunate passing of her former husband, Brandon Blackstock, last month.

The 43-year-old television personality won the debut season of the renowned competition, launching her into international stardom. On Thursday, she expressed her gratitude to her fans for their consistent support through an emotional message.

Alongside a photo of her winning moment she wrote: ‘To everyone that took time 23 years ago to call in and vote for me, thank you.

‘Winning American Idol transformed my life, and I am eternally thankful to all of you who have supported me over the years. Discovering one’s purpose and passion, and being able to earn a living from it, is the icing on the cake. Thank you, always.’

This marked the first time Clarkson had shared a message to her main grid since Blackstock’s death on August 7.

The music manager died aged 48 after battling malignant melanoma. 

Clarkson’s previous post saw her announce she had postponed her Las Vegas residency in order to spend more time with their children, River, 11, and Remington, nine, right before his death.

Clarkson will be returning for season 7 of The Kelly Clarkson Show on September 29 per NBC.

As that is the air date of the premiere episode, production is expected to resume in-studio next week.

Many A-listers will also be appearing in the coming weeks including: Emily Blunt, Marion Cotillard, Colin Farrell, Scarlett Johansson, Dwayne Johnson, Matthew McConaughey, Lionel Richie, Julia Roberts, Shonda Rhimes, Margot Robbie, Sylvester Stallone, Channing Tatum, and Reese Witherspoon, in addition to others. 

Last week, the former American Idol winner returned to the set of The Voice following a brief hiatus.

The Because Of You hitmaker reunited with her fellow coaches Adam Levine and John Legend according to TMZ at the time. The show is also producing two seasons simultaneously. 

The singer had skipped one taping for Season 29 of NBC’s ‘Battle of the Champions’ in early August, right after the tragic death of her ex.

At the time, Jennifer Hudson stepped in to help during the rehearsals for battle rounds. 

Season 28 also has a star-studded lineup, with Michael Bublé, Niall Horan, Snoop Dogg, and Reba McEntire all returning when the show premiers this fall.

Reba’s role was initially uncertain as Blackstock was her stepson, but sources have confirmed to Deadline that she is filming as planned and honoring all of her commitments.

Brandon’s death was announced by a family representative on the day he died.

They told People at the time: ‘It is with great sadness that we share the news that Brandon Blackstock has passed away.

‘Brandon bravely battled cancer for more than three years. He passed away peacefully and was surrounded by family. We thank you for your thoughts and prayers and ask everyone to respect the family’s privacy during this very difficult time.’

The pop star – who endured an acrimonious split from the talent manager – had announced on X shortly before his passing: ‘Unfortunately, I need to postpone the remainder of the August Studio Session dates in Las Vegas.

‘While I normally keep my personal life private, this past year, my children’s father has been ill and at this moment, I need to be fully present for them.’

Although the singer revealed that Brandon was ill, she didn’t share any other details about his sickness at the time.