Veteran singer-songwriter Barry Manilow has revealed that he has been diagnosed with lung cancer and will undergo surgery, prompting the rescheduling of his January concert dates. The announcement was made Monday through a personal statement shared on social media, in which the 82-year-old performer described the circumstances that led to the discovery of the illness and reassured fans about his prognosis.
Manilow said the diagnosis followed a period of recurring bronchitis that lasted several weeks on two separate occasions. As a precaution, his physician ordered an MRI scan, which detected a cancerous spot on his left lung. According to Manilow, the affected area requires surgical removal, but doctors believe the cancer was found at an early stage and has not spread. He noted that additional tests are underway to confirm the initial assessment.
In his statement, Manilow emphasized the role of early detection in his case, crediting both timing and medical expertise for identifying the condition before it advanced. He also urged fans to pay close attention to their own health, encouraging medical testing even for minor or seemingly insignificant symptoms.
The upcoming surgery will require Manilow to temporarily step away from performing, leading to the postponement of his January concerts, which were part of his Christmas: A Gift of Love shows. He expressed regret over the disruption, acknowledging that both he and his audience had been eagerly anticipating the performances. An apology accompanied the announcement, reflecting his awareness of the inconvenience caused to fans who had made plans to attend.
Despite the delay, Manilow confirmed that his touring schedule will resume following his previously planned Valentine’s Day weekend concerts in Las Vegas. His revised performance calendar is expected to run from late February through April, allowing time for recovery before returning to the stage. The singer has maintained an active presence in live music well into his later years, with Las Vegas residencies and touring commitments continuing to draw strong audiences.
Manilow’s disclosure has drawn attention to broader discussions around health awareness, particularly among older adults, and underscores the importance of routine medical evaluations. While he did not provide specific details about his treatment timeline beyond the planned surgery, the overall tone of his message conveyed optimism and confidence in a full recovery.
As one of the most enduring figures in popular music, Manilow has built a career spanning decades, marked by chart-topping hits and sold-out concerts worldwide. His latest health update reassures fans that, while the immediate focus is on treatment, he remains committed to returning to live performances once medically cleared.
