Barry Manilow Announces Lung Cancer Diagnosis, Reschedules Upcoming Concerts
While the holiday season is typically a time of celebration, legendary crooner Barry Manilow shared a somber update with his audience on Monday (Dec. 22). In a heartfelt statement released across his social media platforms, the Grammy-winning icon revealed that a recent medical examination identified a cancerous growth in one of his lungs, necessitating the postponement of his January performances to allow for immediate treatment.
The 82-year-old artist detailed the circumstances leading to the discovery, noting that it followed an exhaustive eleven-week battle with bronchitis. Although he had successfully returned to the stage at the Westgate Las Vegas, his physician recommended an MRI as a precautionary measure. “The MRI discovered a cancerous spot on my left lung that needs to be removed,” Manilow explained. He expressed immense gratitude for the early detection, describing the find as “pure luck” and praising his medical team for catching the issue in its infancy.
Having completed his scheduled Christmas residency, Manilow is now moving forward with surgery to remove the malignancy. The current outlook is optimistic, as his physicians do not believe the cancer has metastasized. “I’m undergoing further testing to confirm their diagnosis,” he shared, maintaining his signature wit regarding his upcoming recovery. “So, that’s it. No chemo. No radiation. Just chicken soup and I Love Lucy reruns.”
Manilow—a mainstay of the Billboard Hot 100 with three career No. 1 hits—offered a sincere apology to fans affected by the schedule changes. However, he is already looking forward to a triumphant return to his “home away from home” at the Westgate Las Vegas for a Valentine’s Day weekend celebration on February 12-14, 2026. “Something tells me that February weekend is going to be one big party!” he added.
The singer concluded his announcement by urging his followers to remain vigilant about their own health. While wishing his supporters a joyful Christmas and a peaceful New Year, he left them with a vital piece of advice: “Remember, if you have even the slightest symptom… get tested!”
