Barry Manilow to Undergo Surgery to Remove Cancerous Spot on Lung, Reschedules 2026 Concerts

Iconic pop singer Barry Manilow delivered an important health announcement to his audience this week. A cancerous lesion was discovered on his left lung during a standard post-holiday medical examination, necessitating surgical intervention. The artist, famed for timeless classics such as "Mandy" and "Copacabana," reassured fans that the outlook is excellent and that neither chemotherapy nor radiation will be required as part of his treatment plan.

The diagnosis followed an extended period of poor health for the singer. After initially battling bronchitis for over a month, Manilow experienced a relapse that lasted another five weeks. It was a follow-up appointment prompted by this lingering illness that revealed the suspicious spot. In a social media update, he conveyed the doctors' belief that the cancer has not metastasized, a conclusion currently being verified through additional testing. His prescribed recuperation is characteristically simple, involving rest, comfort food, and classic television. This early detection is a significant factor in his positive prognosis. According to the American Cancer Society, the five-year survival rate for localized lung cancer is markedly higher than for cases that have spread, underscoring the importance of timely check-ups.

As a result, Manilow's immediate performance calendar requires adjustment. All of his January arena dates will be postponed to accommodate an essential month of post-operative recovery. He expressed deep disappointment to ticket holders, acknowledging that he, too, was eagerly anticipating the shows. Furthermore, select concerts in his planned 2026 tour will be rescheduled to ensure a complete recovery. This isn't the first time health has impacted a major tour; similar postponements by other veteran performers often highlight the physical demands of sustained live performance careers.

Despite this setback, Manilow is looking forward to his return. His focus is on his upcoming residency at the Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Casino, a venue with which he has a long and successful history. He specifically highlighted Valentine's weekend performances in February and his full 2026 schedule, stating he is counting down the days until he can be back on stage. The Westgate Las Vegas, originally the Las Vegas Hilton, has been a landmark venue for iconic residencies since the 1970s, hosting legends like Elvis Presley and now serving as a modern home for Manilow's shows.

Manilow concluded his announcement with holiday well-wishes and a vital public health reminder, urging anyone with potential symptoms to seek medical advice promptly. He signed off with a hopeful promise to reunite with fans in Las Vegas for Valentine's Day, turning his personal health journey into a cautionary tale for others.