Barry Manilow Diagnosed with Lung Cancer, Postpones Concert Dates

Barry Manilow, the beloved pop icon whose songs have spanned generations, has revealed that he’s been diagnosed with lung cancer and will undergo surgery to remove a spot discovered on his left lung.

The 82-year-old singer shared the news in a heartfelt Instagram post, telling fans that while the diagnosis was unexpected, it came early and that may make all the difference.

“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.”

Manilow explained that doctors do not believe the cancer has spread, though he is undergoing further testing to confirm that. As a result, the legendary performer will be rescheduling his January concerts from his “Christmas: A Gift of Love” series. He says he plans to be back on stage in time for Valentine’s Day weekend in 2026.

“We were all looking forward to the January shows and hate having to move everything around,” he said, apologizing to fans for the inconvenience.

He ended the message with both encouragement and a personal reminder:

“I hope you have a wonderful Christmas and a Happy New Year. And remember, if you have even the slightest symptom, get tested!”

Barry Manilow has been a fixture of American pop music for more than five decades. Known for unforgettable hits like “Mandy,” “Copacabana,” and “Can’t Smile Without You,” Manilow built a legacy on melody, emotion, and timeless performances.

Before rising to superstardom in the 1970s, Manilow worked behind the scenes, writing commercial jingles and arranging music for artists like Bette Midler. His unique combination of musical skill and showmanship won him Grammy Awards, countless platinum albums, and a loyal global fanbase known proudly as the “Fanilows.”

Despite changing musical trends, Manilow’s appeal has never faded. Even into his 80s, he has continued to tour, record, and perform with the energy and charisma that made him famous.

Manilow’s openness about his diagnosis serves as a sobering yet hopeful reminder: early detection can save lives. Lung cancer remains one of the most common and deadly cancers in the U.S., but when caught in its earliest stages, it is far more treatable.

For a man who has brought so much joy to so many over the years, the news hits hard but the tone of his message was unmistakably positive, focusing not on fear but on faith in modern medicine, and a determined plan to return.

Manilow fans will no doubt rally around the legendary artist as he faces this health battle. If his career is any indication, Barry Manilow doesn’t back down from a challenge and he won’t now.

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