Thomas Kinkade's brother says artist relapsed into alcoholism

  

MONTE SERENO, Calif. (KFSN) -- Thomas Kinkade's brother says the artist battled alcoholism for several years and had a relapse right before his death.

The artist died last week at age 54 of what a spokesman has said were natural causes. An autopsy is pending.

Patrick Kinkade told the San Jose Mercury News his brother had been troubled by a longtime drinking problem and also dealing with splitting from his wife two years ago. He said his brother had been drinking all night and was not moving when authorities were called to his home, according to a recording of a dispatcher involved in the response.

Thomas Kinkade was known for his sentimental paintings. His commercial empire was said to generate about $100 million a year.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

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