Kelly Clarkson emerged victorious in a recent legal battle against her ex-husband Brandon Blackstock, with a California labor commissioner ruling that he owes her over $2.6M in commissions. These commissions were accrued from business deals that Blackstock procured during his time as her manager, a role he should not have undertaken under California law.
The Ruling
In a November 21 decision, Labor Commissioner Lilia Garcia-Brower determined that Blackstock violated California's Talent Agencies Act (TAA) by procuring deals for Clarkson that her licensed talent agents should have managed at Creative Artists Agency (CAA). Talent Agencies Act prohibits anyone other than a licensed talent agent from procuring artist employment.
Unlawful Management
According to the ruling, Blackstock crossed the line when he secured several deals for Clarkson, including her highly coveted position as a judge on The Voice. The commissioner found that these deals should have been arranged exclusively by CAA, resulting in the legal backlash against Blackstock.
The Payback: A Hefty Sum
As a consequence of his violations, Blackstock is now required to repay Clarkson the commissions he earned from four separate deals:
- $1,983,155.70 for securing her role on The Voice;
- $208,125 for a promotional contract with Norweigan Cruise Lines;
- $450,000 for an agreement to endorse Wayfair and
- $93.30 for hosting the Billboard Music Awards from 2018 to 2020.
Exceptions in the Ruling
Interestingly, the labor commissioner dismissed Clarkson's claim that Blackstock should repay his commissions from The Kelly Clarkson Show. The commissioner determined that Blackstock's involvement in the deal, which included strategizing with Clarkson's agents, was "at the request of CAA" and did not breach the TAA.
Garcia-Brower explained in the ruling that when a manager strategizes alongside an agent during negotiations and does not contact the potential employer without the agent's consent, they comply with the requirements of the TAA.
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A Complex Divorce
The ruling comes after Clarkson's divorce from Blackstock, filed in June 2020 after seven years of marriage. In 2022, the divorce was finalized, with Clarkson agreeing to pay Blackstock monthly child support of $45,601 for their two children and a one-time payment of just over $1.3 million. Neither party's legal representatives have commented on the recent decision.
The Wider Implications
This ruling serves as a pivotal reminder of the importance of legal boundaries within the entertainment industry and beyond. It highlights the potential ramifications that may be faced when these boundaries are ignored or knowingly overstepped.
For artists, creative talents, and those involved in procuring work, it is essential to stay well-informed of the laws governing the industry. Seeking out legal advice from a professional can help avoid inadvertently violating such regulations.
Individuals can avoid legal disputes like Kelly Clarkson and Brandon Blackstock's ongoing case by being mindful of these legal requirements. Engaging in lawful practices fosters positive business relationships and promotes a fair and professional environment within the entertainment sector.
Consult an experienced lawyer for help with business deals or legal issues. You can safeguard your interests, comply with the law, and avoid costly legal disputes with our service.
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