Kelly Clarkson is building a new life – and a new look – in the big city.
A single mother to her daughter River Rose, 9, and son Remington Alexander, 7, Clarkson, 41, now makes her home in New York City. “I was very unhappy in LA and had been for several years. I needed a fresh start,” she tells PEOPLE in this week’s cover story.
Kelly Clarkson covers this week's issue of PEOPLE.
White Eubanks
When she moved her hit talk show from LA to NYC, we told NBC, “I'm not trying to sound ungrateful, I just can't stay here anymore, for my mental health, for myself and my kids.” They weren't fine either good. The last few years I've just shown up, smiled and done what I'm supposed to do, but you can only split yourself up for so long before you break down.”
Typical days off from work now revolve around wandering around the city with her children (whom she shares with ex-husband Brandon Blackstock, 47). “We walk the dogs in the park a few times. We're going out for ice cream because my daughter is going to wear me out. We make slime and go to the museum,” she says.
Kelly Clarkson performs for the Today show on September 22, 2023 in New York City.
Gilbert Carrasquillo/GC Images
Clarkson credits her activities on the road with helping her get in shape. “Walking around town is quite a workout,” she says. “And I’m really into infrared saunas at the moment. And I just took a cold fall because everyone was wearing me down.”
On her diet: “I eat a healthy mix. I lost weight because I listened to my doctor – I didn't for a few years. And 90 percent of the time I'm really good at it because a protein diet is good for me anyway. I’m a Texas girl so I like meat – sorry, vegetarians all over the world!”
Kelly Clarkson attends the SiriusXM Next Generation event on November 8, 2023 in New York City.
Cindy Ord/Getty
The move to NYC gave Clarkson the opportunity to “be present” on her show, which was just nominated for a Critics Choice Award for Best Talk Show (the only daytime show and female host in that category).
“I've been through a really tough few years, and even in the first season it was tough behind closed doors,” she says. “Just so I can start the fifth season with a good feeling and know that my children are doing well – and the dust has settled. Season 5 is my first season where I can actually enjoy every minute of it.”
What advice would she give her 15-year-old self now? “It’s getting easier,” Clarkson says. “I've always been someone who's a bit hard on myself. I would say, 'It's not going to happen anytime soon, but eventually it will get easier.' You'll really get your act together around 41.' ”
The Kelly Clarkson Show airs weekdays. Check local listings for station and time.