Brandon Blackstock'scause of death has been confirmed. The 48-year-old ex-husband of Kelly Clarksondied from melanoma, a form of skin cancer, Dan Hollis, a coroner in Silver Bow County, Montana, confirmed to USA TODAY Aug. 11. Risk of the condition, which often results from overexposure to ultraviolet light, is seemingly growing in people under 40,the Mayo Clinic reports, especially among women. Blackstock, a talent manager as wellas country star Reba McEntire's stepson, died Aug. 7. "It is with great sadness that we share the news that Brandon Blackstock has passed away," a statement from his family shared with USA TODAY at the time read. Kelly Clarkson, Brandon Blackstockand why grieving an ex can be so complicated The news came one day after Clarkson, 43,announced on social mediathat the August dates of her Las Vegas residency will be postponed while she focuses on her family. The hiatus follows a prolonged absence from her NBC talk show earlier in the year. Blackstock, who shares two children with Clarkson,"bravely battled cancer for more than three years," the family statement said. "He passed away peacefully and was surrounded by family." "We thank you for your thoughts and prayers and ask everyone to respect the family's privacy during this very difficult time," the statement concluded. Blackstockwas the first-ever "American Idol" winner's longtime manager.The pair tied the knoton Oct. 20, 2013, atBlackberry Farmin Walland, Tennessee. In addition to Clarkson, he also helped manage clients alongside his dad, including genre superstarsBlake SheltonandCarly Pearce. Blackstock and Clarkson's divorce was finalized in 2022, but the songstress was awardedprimary custody of their children,River Rose, 11, and Remy Alexander, 9, two years prior. Contributing: Melissa Ruggieri, Jay Stahl This article originally appeared on USA TODAY:Brandon Blackstock cause of death revealed
