Why is Barry Manilow cancelling shows? Singer opens up about Cancer diagnosis
Barry Manilow confirms lung cancer diagnosis at 82. Image Source: Grammys
Legendary American singer Barry Manilow has revealed that he has been diagnosed with lung cancer and will undergo surgery to remove a cancerous spot on his lung, a disclosure that has drawn widespread support from fans across the world.
The 82-year-old music icon, whose career spans more than five decades, confirmed that the cancer was detected at an early and operable stage following medical tests ordered after a prolonged battle with bronchitis. Despite postponing several scheduled performances, Manilow expressed optimism and said he is expecting to return to the stage by February, beginning with his long-running Las Vegas residency.
How Barry Manilow’s Cancer Was Discovered
In a candid statement shared on social media, Manilow explained that the diagnosis came after he experienced six weeks of bronchitis, followed by a relapse that lasted another five weeks.
Although he had recovered and resumed performing at the Westgate Las Vegas Resort and Casino, his physician ordered an MRI scan as a precautionary measure. That decision proved critical.
“The MRI discovered a cancerous spot on my left lung that needs to be removed,” Manilow said. “It’s pure luck, and a great doctor, that it was found so early.”
Doctors believe the cancer has not spread, and further tests are being conducted to confirm the diagnosis.
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No Chemotherapy or Radiation Planned
In what fans described as a hopeful update, Manilow confirmed that chemotherapy and radiation will not be required as part of his treatment.
“So that’s it. No chemo. No radiation. Just chicken soup and I Love Lucy reruns,” he joked.
The singer will undergo surgery to remove part of his lung and is expected to spend about one month recovering.
Concerts Postponed, Las Vegas Residency to Resume
As a result of the surgery and recovery period, Manilow has postponed a number of upcoming arena concerts, including shows scheduled in several US cities.
However, he reassured fans that his Valentine’s Day concerts at the Westgate Las Vegas, where he is currently in the 16th year of his residency, remain a major motivation.
“I’m counting the days until I return to my home away from home at the Westgate Las Vegas,” he said.
The residency is expected to continue throughout 2026, pending medical clearance.
A Career Defined by Enduring Pop Classics
Barry Manilow is widely regarded as one of pop music’s most successful live performers, with timeless hits such as “Copacabana,” “Mandy,” “Looks Like We Made It,” and “Can’t Smile Without You.”
His energetic stage presence and emotionally resonant ballads have earned him a devoted fan base across generations, cementing his reputation as one of the most recognizable voices in American pop history.
Personal Life and Longtime Partner Garry Kief
Manilow publicly came out as gay in 2017, revealing that he had married his longtime partner and manager, Garry Kief, in a private ceremony in 2014. The couple had maintained a discreet relationship for more than 35 years.
In previous interviews, Manilow credited Kief with providing emotional stability during the height of his fame in the 1970s, describing their relationship as a source of grounding and companionship amid relentless touring.
A Message to Fans: “Get Tested”
Beyond sharing his diagnosis, Manilow used the moment to issue a health warning to fans and the wider public.
“If you have even the slightest symptom… get tested,” he urged, emphasizing the importance of early detection.
Medical professionals consistently note that early diagnosis significantly improves outcomes in lung cancer cases.
FAQ
Does Barry Manilow have cancer?
Yes. Barry Manilow has been diagnosed with early-stage lung cancer, which was discovered during an MRI scan.
How old is Barry Manilow now?
Barry Manilow is 82 years old.
What type of cancer does Barry Manilow have?
He has a cancerous spot on his left lung, detected at an early and operable stage.
Is Barry Manilow undergoing chemotherapy or radiation?
No. Doctors have confirmed that chemotherapy and radiation are not required at this time.
Will Barry Manilow return to performing?
Yes. Manilow has said he expects to return to the stage by February, beginning with his Valentine’s Day concerts in Las Vegas.
Which shows have been postponed?
Several arena concerts scheduled for January have been postponed to allow time for surgery and recovery.
Where does Barry Manilow currently perform?
He holds a long-running residency at the Westgate Las Vegas Resort and Casino.
Is Barry Manilow married?
Yes. He is married to his longtime partner and manager, Garry Kief.
What message did Barry Manilow share with fans?
Manilow urged fans to seek medical testing early, stressing that early detection played a key role in his diagnosis.