Brandon Blackstock diagnosed with cancer after Kelly Clarkson divorce

Brandon Blackstock learned he had cancer following his divorce from Kelly Clarkson.

The late talent manager, who died on Aug. 7 at age 48, “was diagnosed after the divorce,” a source told People.

Blackstock and Clarkson, 43, married in 2013 and shared two children: daughter River, 11, and son Remington, 9. He was also father to two other children, Savannah and Seth Blackstock, from his first marriage to Melissa Ashworth.

Seven years into his and Clarkson’s marriage, the “Since U Been Gone” singer filed for divorce in 2020, citing irreconcilable differences. Their divorce was finalized in 2022, with Clarkson granted primary custody of the children.

In a statement obtained by The Post, Blackstock’s family announced his passing following a yearslong private battle with cancer.

“It is with great sadness that we share the news that Brandon Blackstock has passed away,” the statement read. “Brandon bravely battled cancer for more than three years.

“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,” they concluded.

Sources told TMZ that Blackstock had been battling melanoma, a serious form of skin cancer, and passed away Thursday morning.

The day before Blackstock’s tragic death, Clarkson postponed the remaining August shows of her Las Vegas residency.

She explained that Blackstock was experiencing health issues and she needed to focus on caring for their children.

“Unfortunately, I need to postpone the remainder of the August Studio Session dates in Las Vegas,” the “Stronger” hitmaker wrote on her Instagram on Aug. 6.

“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 revealed.

Clarkson concluded, “I am sincerely sorry to everyone who bought tickets to the shows, and I so appreciate your grace, kindness and understanding.”

In the wake of Blackstock’s passing, another source told People that Clarkson had “been devastated” for their children ever since her ex-husband received his diagnosis.

“When she found out that he was sick, she remained protective of him for their sake,” the insider told the outlet. “Kelly has always tried to keep things classy. It became clear earlier this year that Brandon was not doing well. She’s been devastated for the kids.”

Though the ex-couple’s divorce was filled with drama, the source emphasized that the “American Idol” winner stayed focused on maintaining Blackstock’s relationship with their children.

Describing the split and ensuing legal battle as “messy, painful and something [Clarkson] felt terrible about,” the source added, “The divorce was incredibly difficult for her… But she always wanted her kids to have the best relationship possible with their dad. She never spoke poorly about Brandon to the kids.”

Sources would go on to confirm to Page Six that Blackstock had been secretly battling cancer, and that Clarkson had been juggling work while caring for her ex behind the scenes.

“It’s been exhausting and so sad,” the source said. “Kelly has been working so hard, as well as looking after Brandon. Despite their difficult divorce, he’s still the man she loved and still her kids’ father.”