Pop music icon Barry Manilow announced on December 22, 2025, that he has been diagnosed with lung cancer and will undergo surgery to remove a cancerous spot from his left lung.
The 82-year-old singer revealed on Instagram that the diagnosis came after an MRI was ordered following a prolonged health struggle. Manilow had suffered six weeks of bronchitis, followed by a five-week relapse of the respiratory illness. Even after recovering and returning to the stage at Westgate Las Vegas, his doctor ordered an MRI as a precaution.
“The MRI discovered a cancerous spot on my left lung that needs to be removed,” Manilow wrote. “It’s pure luck (and a great doctor) that it was found so early.”
The legendary performer expressed optimism about his prognosis, noting that doctors do not believe the cancer has spread. He is undergoing additional tests to confirm their diagnosis. The singer emphasized that following the surgery, no chemotherapy or radiation will be needed.
“So that’s it. No chemo. No radiation,” Manilow stated in his announcement. “Just chicken soup and I Love Lucy reruns.”
The diagnosis comes after Manilow completed his Christmas shows at Westgate Las Vegas, where he holds a lifetime residency at the International Theater. The singer also recently performed charity concerts in Palm Desert, California. His recovery will require one month, forcing the postponement of his January arena concerts.
The rescheduled tour dates originally planned for January have been moved to February, March, and April. Cities affected by the postponement include Sunrise, Florida; Tampa, Florida; and Columbus, Ohio, along with tour dates in South Carolina and Georgia. Ticket holders for the January shows can use their existing tickets for the rescheduled performances.
Manilow apologized to fans who will need to adjust their plans due to the concert changes. He expressed his eagerness to return to performing and assured supporters that he remains committed to his scheduled Valentine’s Day weekend concerts at the Westgate Las Vegas on February 12, 13, and 14.
“In the meantime, I’m counting the days until I return to my home away from home at the Westgate Las Vegas for our Valentine’s weekend concerts,” the singer wrote, adding that he believes the February weekend will be “one big party.”
The singer’s connection to Las Vegas runs deep. Manilow holds a lifetime residency at the International Theater at Westgate Las Vegas, where he broke Elvis Presley’s long-standing performance record. In September 2023, Manilow surpassed Elvis’s 636 performances at the historic venue, cementing his status as one of Las Vegas’s most enduring entertainers.
Known for his extensive catalog of hits, including “Copacabana,” “Mandy,” “I Write the Songs,” and “Can’t Smile Without You,” Manilow has maintained a demanding performance schedule despite his age. His resilience and dedication to his craft have made him a beloved figure in the entertainment industry for decades.
The Grammy-winning artist used his health announcement as an opportunity to encourage fans to prioritize their own medical care. Manilow urged his followers to seek medical testing if they experience even the slightest symptoms, emphasizing the importance of early detection in his own case.
Beyond his February concerts in Las Vegas, Manilow has a UK tour scheduled later in the year, demonstrating his continued commitment to performing internationally. The singer’s extensive 2026 schedule underscores his determination to continue entertaining audiences worldwide despite the recent health setback.
Medical experts generally recommend that patients experiencing persistent respiratory symptoms undergo a thorough evaluation. In Manilow’s case, the decision to order an MRI following his extended bout with bronchitis proved crucial in detecting the cancerous spot before it could spread to other areas of the body.
Lung cancer remains one of the most serious forms of cancer, making early detection particularly important for successful treatment outcomes. The fact that doctors believe the cancer has not spread significantly improves the prognosis and reduces the need for more aggressive treatments such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy.
The outpouring of support from fans and fellow entertainers following Manilow’s announcement reflects his enduring popularity and the impact he has made on the music industry over his five-decade career. His transparency about his diagnosis has also sparked conversations about the importance of regular health screenings, particularly for individuals experiencing prolonged or recurring symptoms.
As Manilow prepares for surgery and recovery, his focus remains on returning to the stage and continuing the legacy he has built at Westgate Las Vegas. His positive attitude and determination to resume performing demonstrate the resilience that has characterized his lengthy career in show business.
The singer closed his announcement with holiday wishes for his fans, expressing hope for a wonderful Christmas and New Year while reiterating his message about the importance of medical testing. His return to the stage in February will mark a new chapter in his storied career, one that begins with gratitude for early detection and the support of his medical team and devoted fanbase.
