Kelly Clarksonhas kept a low profile since thedeath of her ex-husband, Brandon Blackstock, on August 7, but she returned to social media for the first time in a month to mark a special anniversary. On Thursday (September 4), the "Since U Been Gone" singer took to her Instagram page to celebrate the 23rd anniversary of her winning the first season ofAmerican Idol, sharing her thanks to all those who have continued to support her over the years. "To everyone that took time 23 years ago to call in and vote for me, thank you WinningAmerican Idolchanged my life and I will be forever grateful for all of you that have supported me for so many years," she wrote. "It is a gift to find your purpose and passion, and to be able to make a living doing it is the cherry on top. Thank you, always." Clarkson wrote the sweet comment alongside a photo of her winning moment on the hit reality competition series, showing her surrounded by her fellow contestants while confetti rained down. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Kelly Clarkson (@kellyclarkson) Before the new post, the daytime talk show host'slast Instagram updatecame on August 6, where she announced she was canceling the remaining August Studio Session dates of her Las Vegas residency. "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," she wrote at the time. Although Clarkson has not publicly addressed the death of her ex, a source reportedly toldPeoplemagazine that she was "devastated" over the loss. Blackstock, who was married to Clarkson from 2013 to 2020 and shared two children with her, died on August 7 after a private three-year battle with cancer. He was 48 years old. Fans and friends flooded the comments on Clarkson'sIdolanniversary post, including Season 6 championJordin Sparks, who wrote, "THE OG!! I remember watching you win and saying to my parents, "I want to do that!" Thank you for inspiring me and so many countless others! " The officialAmerican Idolaccount also commented, writing, "THIS is what it's all about. You were an icon from the start. ." Selling SunsetstarChrishell Stausequipped, "I take my elections seriously. Love that we got this so right ." Singer Gina Naomi Baez added, "ALL HAIL THE ROYALTY THAT IS KELLY CLARKSON ." "Best season and voting experience ever!" added another. "You had me at "cool beans" before the audition even started," one fan recalled "And then… you sang, and I remember thinking "that girl don't need a backup plan" you're still the best!" "Wow, crazy 23 years. I used to beg my father every week for 15 minutes of internet so I could catch up with your performances," said another. Another wrote, "From the first audition to this very post, watching your dreams become a reality has been an honor! There is no person, no vocalist more deserving. Here's to decades and decades more." "Girl. I used EVERY vote on you and I would do it again ," said one fan. "Probably the last time that I believed that voting made a difference," wrote another. Another added, "You are THE American Idol. A gift to us all." Read the latest entertainment news onTV Insider.