Podcast Summary: The Latest with Loren LaRosa
Episode Release Date: August 8, 2025
Host: Lauren LaRosa
Platform: The Black Effect and iHeartPodcasts

1. Tragic Passing of Kelly Clarkson’s Ex-Husband, Brandon Blackstock

Lauren LaRosa opens the episode with somber news regarding Kelly Clarkson's personal life. Kelly Clarkson, renowned for her music career and her daily talk show, "The Kelly Clarkson Show," has been notably absent in recent months, sparking concerns among fans. The reason behind her sudden absence was revealed to be the illness of her ex-husband, Brandon Blackstock.

• Announcement of Postponed Vegas Residency:

  • Lauren LaRosa ([03:00]) explains that Kelly Clarkson had to postpone her highly anticipated Vegas residency to attend to Brandon and their children due to his severe illness.

• Brandon Blackstock’s Passing:

  • Less than 24 hours after the initial announcement, People magazine broke the exclusive news that Brandon Blackstock had passed away after battling melanoma for over three years.
  • Lauren LaRosa ([04:15]) shares the family statement: "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 his family. We thank you for your thoughts and prayers, and we ask everyone to respect the family's privacy during this time." ([04:20])

• Impact on Kelly Clarkson:

  • Lauren ([06:45]) delves into the profound impact Brandon had on Kelly’s life and career, highlighting their meeting in 2006, subsequent relationship, and co-parenting dynamics.
  • She emphasizes Brandon’s role in Kelly’s transition from music to television: “He was a huge factor in her career, in her life... she attributes a lot of things that she's been able to do to him and his support.”

• Family Updates:

  • In addition to Brandon's passing, it was announced that one of Brandon's daughters is expecting her second child, adding another layer of emotional complexity to the family's situation.

2. Tamar Braxton’s “Big Bad Cadillac” Incident and Apology

Shifting to pop culture dynamics, Lauren discusses an exclusive interaction with Tamar Braxton, focusing on the infamous "Big Bad Cadillac" comment.

• Exclusive Interview with Tamar Braxton:

  • Lauren ([07:30]) recounts a sit-down with Tamar at the BET Awards media room, noting Tamar's evolved demeanor compared to her previous public persona.
  • Tamar Braxton addresses her reputation as the "problem child" of the Braxton sisters and expresses her desire to shift focus away from drama: “I'm trying to grow up... watch her words and be more mature.”

• The "Big Bad Cadillac" Comment:

  • Lauren ([11:10]) recalls a heated exchange where Tamar referred to co-host Loni Love as a "big bad Cadillac," sparking controversy.
  • Lauren probes Tamar on her remarks: “Somebody called me a big bad Cadillac. We got a lot of problems. Okay? We got big problems. Not compact car problems.” ([11:43])

• Tamar’s Apology:

  • Tamar Braxton offers an unexpected and mature apology: “That is an interview that I'm not so proud of because it was a lot of girlfriend kitchen talk... It gets very free flowing.” ([12:22])
  • Lauren ([12:48]) highlights the significance of Tamar addressing the issue head-on, marking personal growth and accountability.

3. Loni Love’s Response to Tamar Braxton’s Apology

The conversation extends to Loni Love’s reaction to Tamar Braxton’s comments and subsequent apology.

• Interview on "Watch What Happens Live":

  • Lauren ([13:46]) references Loni Love’s appearance with Andy Cohen, where she was pressed about accepting Tamar’s apology and burying past tensions.
  • Loni Love ([13:58]) dismisses any ongoing "beef," stating, “I have no beef. That's what I want people to understand.”

• Loni’s Perspective:

  • She explains her initial lack of awareness about the issues due to being in Iceland during the incidents: “I was in Iceland. I didn't know what was going on.” ([14:04])
  • Emphasizes her focus on positivity and contentment, avoiding engagement in conflicts: “I use my platform to entertain, inform, and inspire not to do beefs.” ([14:21])

• Lauren’s Insight:

  • Lauren ([16:00]) reflects on the long-standing history between Tamar and Loni, discussing Tamar’s struggles on "The Real" and her portrayal as a villain.
  • She appreciates the progress made, noting that both women now appear to have moved past their conflicts: “I think the beef is done. I think it's over.” ([16:05])
  • However, she cautions that the delicate nature of public perceptions means that future misunderstandings could reignite tensions.

Conclusion

Lauren LaRosa wraps up the episode by acknowledging the complexities of personal relationships in the public eye and the importance of empathy during times of personal loss and professional disagreements. She expresses gratitude to her audience for their continued support and teases future content, including merchandise announcements.

Notable Quotes:

• Lauren LaRosa on Kelly Clarkson:
  “I can't imagine how she feels... to have to grieve and figure out life through all of that.” ([07:50])

• Tamar Braxton’s Apology:
  “I'm gonna give you this because I want to be done with it once I leave here.” ([12:22])

• Loni Love on Avoiding Beef:
  “I use my platform to entertain, inform, and inspire not to do beefs.” ([14:21])

This episode of "The Latest with Loren LaRosa" offers listeners an insightful blend of breaking news and in-depth conversations with key figures in the entertainment industry, highlighting themes of personal resilience, accountability, and the evolving nature of public personas.