Music icon Barry Manilow has revealed that he has been diagnosed with lung cancer, causing him to postpone his January tour dates while he focuses on treatment. Despite the diagnosis, the singer, celebrated worldwide for hits like Mandy, Copacabana, and Somewhere Down the Road, has confirmed he will not undergo chemotherapy or radiation.
Early detection after bronchitis
In late December, the 82-year-old Manilow shared the news of his diagnosis, which came after a prolonged bout with bronchitis. “As many of you know, I recently endured six weeks of bronchitis followed by a relapse lasting another five weeks,” he explained. “Even after recovering and returning to the stage at Westgate Las Vegas, my doctor recommended an MRI to make sure everything was okay.”
The scan revealed a cancerous spot on his left lung. “It’s sheer luck—and excellent medical care—that it was detected so early,” Manilow said.
Choosing surgery over chemo or radiation
The singer reassured fans that his treatment plan does not include chemotherapy or radiation. “Now that the Christmas Gift of Love concerts are complete, I’ll be having surgery to remove the spot,” he said. “Doctors don’t believe it has spread, and I’m undergoing tests to confirm that. So that’s it—no chemo, no radiation. Just chicken soup and I Love Lucy reruns.”
Tour updates
Originally scheduled for January 2026 in nine U.S. cities, Manilow’s arena tour has been postponed to late February through April. All original tickets remain valid. His Valentine’s weekend shows at Westgate Las Vegas, his “home away from home,” will go ahead as planned. “Something tells me February is going to be one big party,” he wrote, adding, “I hope you have a wonderful Christmas and New Year, and remember, if you notice even the slightest symptom, get tested!”
On January 2, Manilow shared a cheerful Instagram update from what appeared to be a hospital bed, captioned with a gray text bubble reading, “Better today!”
A lifetime of resilience
This is not the first health challenge to affect Manilow. In 2022, he tested positive for COVID-19 just hours before opening night of his musical Harmony. Despite the setback, he encouraged fans to attend the performance, highlighting his dedication to live audiences.
Reflecting on his longevity, the 82-year-old singer told The Standard in 2023 that he has no intention of slowing down. “People in their 80s often look older than I do. They’re retired. That’s not me,” he said. “Staying busy keeps me sharp and energized. Your brain stays active when you keep working.”
Even as he prepares for surgery, Manilow remains focused on his music. “I’m still healthy and strong, with my voice and energy intact. The day I can’t hit the F natural on Even Now will be the day I throw in the towel. But I can still do it.”
Smoking history and health
Lung cancer is strongly linked to smoking, and Manilow has openly discussed his decades-long history with cigarettes. “I smoked for 30 years, starting when I was nine,” he told The Standard in 2012. He later quit and resumed the habit for a period before switching to vaping.
Fans show support
Since announcing his diagnosis, Manilow has received an outpouring of love on social media. One fan wrote, “You even make that hospital gown look good! 😉🥰 Be well! ❤️” Another encouraged, “Keep healing, Barry… You can do it. God is good all the time.”
Through decades of hits, sold-out concerts, and personal challenges, Barry Manilow has consistently connected with his fans. Now, facing this health battle, the world is cheering him on every step of the way. We’re praying for your speedy recovery, Barry.