Kelly Clarkson, the American Idol winner and talk show host, has officially changed her name to Kelly Brianne. She made the announcement after obtaining approval from a California judge on March 28, 2022. The decision stems from her desire to transition away from her famous brand, dropping the surname Clarkson. Despite the change, she will continue to host “The Kelly Clarkson Show” and co-host the “American Song Contest” under the name Kelly Clarkson.

In an interview with PEOPLE magazine, Kelly Brianne revealed that the name change involves dropping her married name, Blackstock, following her divorce from Brandon Blackstock. While maintaining Kelly Clarkson for professional engagements, her personal life will now be identified with her new name, Kelly Brianne. The change reflects her desire to go by her first and middle names only, stating that it “more fully reflects who I am.” Despite the personal transformation, Kelly assured fans that it won’t impact her professional career.