Legendary performer Barry Manilow shared some personal and concerning news with his fans earlier this week. He has been diagnosed with lung cancer and will be undergoing surgery, prompting him to reschedule his upcoming January shows. The 82-year-old singer, known for his enduring hits like "Copacabana" and "Mandy," took to Instagram to reveal his medical condition, launching into a break from his Christmas: A Gift of Love concerts to focus on his health, NBC Chicago reported.
A bout of bronchitis that struck twice for several weeks led to the precautionary MRI that uncovered the cancerous spot on his left lung, Manilow explained in his statement. "The MRI discovered a cancerous spot on my left lung that needs to be removed," he detailed, noting the blend of good fortune and medical expertise that led to the early detection. Despite this setback, Manilow remains hopeful, as "The doctors do not believe it has spread, and I'm taking tests to confirm their diagnosis," as stated in the NBC News report.
The surgery will see Manilow's performances postponed, with a new schedule set to commence after his Valentine's weekend concerts in Las Vegas, extending from late February through April. Addressing his fans, the Grammy, Tony, and Emmy Award-winning artist expressed his regret over the disruptions: "We were all looking forward to the January shows and hate having to move everything around," Manilow said after apologizing for the inconvenience caused by these changes.
Manilow's announcement also carried a resonant message about health awareness, urging his audience to remain vigilant. "If you have even the slightest symptom, get tested!" he encouraged. The New York City native, inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2002, has seen a glittering career that's been recognized across multiple entertainment platforms, marrying his long-time manager, Garry Kief in 2014, and setting down roots together in Palm Springs, California.
