Singer-songwriter Barry Manilow, 82, has announced that he has been diagnosed with stage one lung cancer.
In a social media statement, Manilow shared that he recently experienced six weeks of bronchitis followed by a relapse lasting five additional weeks. Despite recovering and returning to the Westgate Las Vegas for performances, his physician ordered an MRI to ensure his health was stable.
The imaging revealed a small cancerous spot on his left lung requiring surgical removal. Manilow described it as “pure luck (and a great doctor) that it was found so early,” adding that doctors have confirmed the cancer has not spread beyond its initial site and he will undergo additional tests to verify the diagnosis.
He emphasized that chemotherapy and radiation therapy are not part of his treatment plan, stating: “No chemo. No radiation. Just chicken soup and I Love Lucy reruns.”
Manilow noted he is expected to require approximately one month for recovery following surgery, meaning nine January 2026 concert dates from his farewell tour will be postponed. In the statement, he expressed disappointment at having to reschedule events: “Just like you, we were all looking forward to the January shows and hate having to move everything around.”
The singer also shared that he feels well with no symptoms and has been proactive in his health management. Manilow added: “I’m thankful that my doctors were proactive and ran tests that typically wouldn’t be done. They caught it very, very early.”
He expressed hope for a healthy holiday season: “I hope you have a wonderful Christmas and a Happy New Year.”
Manilow concluded with his promise to see fans at the Westgate Las Vegas during Valentine’s Day: “I’ll see you there.”
