US singer-songwriter Barry Manilow revealed that he has been diagnosed with lung cancer and will undergo surgery, prompting him to cancel performances scheduled for the rest of December and January.
On Monday, Dec. 22, the 82-year-old Grammy-winning artist said the cancer was discovered after an MRI was ordered following a prolonged bout of bronchitis. Doctors found a cancerous spot on his left lung that needs to be surgically removed.
Manilow described the diagnosis as “pure luck,” noting that the disease was caught early. He said his doctors do not believe the cancer has spread and that further tests are being conducted to confirm the assessment. According to the singer, his treatment plan does not involve chemotherapy or radiation.
“The doctors do not believe it has spread and I’m taking tests to confirm their diagnosis. No chemo. No radiation. Just chicken soup and ‘I Love Lucy’ reruns,” he wrote.
The “I Write the Songs” hitmaker said he remains optimistic about his recovery and expects to return to the stage by mid-February 2026. He specifically cited plans to resume performances at the Westgate Las Vegas during Valentine’s weekend, scheduled for Feb. 12 to 14.
Despite the health setback, Manilow expressed confidence in his prognosis and said he is focused on recovery, rest, and returning to live performances in the coming months.
