Barry Manilow Reveals Early-Stage Lung Cancer, Postpones January Concerts

Barry Manilow, the 82-year-old singer-songwriter behind hits such as "Mandy" and "Copacabana," announced on December 22, 2025 that he has been diagnosed with early-stage lung cancer and will undergo surgery to remove a cancerous spot on his left lung. The tumor was discovered after an extended bout of bronchitis prompted his doctor to order an MRI, and representatives say the cancer does not appear to have spread. As a result, Manilow will postpone a series of January arena concerts, with plans to return to the stage in February for his Las Vegas residency and arena dates.

What happened, and what the team says

Manilow shared the news in a statement on social media, explaining that persistent bronchitis led to an MRI which found the spot. His team described the tumor as stage one, and said the planned treatment is surgical removal only, with no chemotherapy or radiation expected. The singer indicated he would spend January recovering, and that rescheduled shows are planned for February, including Valentine’s weekend performances at the Westgate Las Vegas International Theater and an arena date in Tampa on February 28, 2026.

"No chemo. No radiation. Just chicken soup and 'I Love Lucy' reruns."

That short, wry line from Manilow’s public statement set the tone for his update, and underscored the early stage of the diagnosis, the optimism from his medical team, and his determination to return to performing.

The immediate effect on touring

Manilow’s official website and the artist’s team announced a slate of 2025 arena dates and a continuing Westgate Las Vegas residency. The January arena concerts originally scheduled across Florida, the Carolinas, Georgia and Ohio are being moved into February, and other upcoming dates remain under review, according to the statement from his office.

Sample of rescheduled January dates

```json
{
"status": "postponed",
"original_month": "January 2026",
"rescheduled_month": "February 2026",
"return_date": "2026-02-12",
"notable_arena": "Tampa, FL - 2026-02-28"
}
```

The official tour pages list multiple 2025 dates and a long-running Las Vegas residency, and promoters have begun contacting ticket holders with options for refunds or transfer dates.

Career context and why it matters

Barry Manilow’s career spans more than five decades, and his stage presence and songwriting have made him an enduring figure in adult contemporary pop. Key career facts include:

• More than 85 million albums sold worldwide
• 51 Top 40 singles, including 12 number ones and 27 Top 10 hits
• Winner of Grammy, Tony and Emmy awards

These numbers help explain the immediate attention the diagnosis received, and why fans and concert promoters are closely watching his recovery timeline.

Table: Quick career snapshot

Reactions and perspectives

Fans reacted on social platforms with an outpouring of support, messages wishing him a swift recovery, and appreciation for his candor. Many cited the comfort his songs have provided across generations, and dozens of posts urged followers to get medical checks when something feels off.

Music industry figures praised his resilience and catalog, noting that Manilow has continued to draw large audiences with a mix of nostalgia and showmanship. Some commentators, looking at the physical demands of touring at age 82, urged a cautious approach, saying medical recovery should take precedence over scheduling.

From a medical perspective, the description of a stage one tumor and the lack of planned chemotherapy or radiation are reasons for guarded optimism. Early detection, followed by targeted surgery, typically offers the best prognosis for localized lung cancer, although every case is different and follow-up tests and monitoring will be essential.

Multiple viewpoints on the decision to continue performing

• Supporters say continuing the residency and selective arena shows gives fans a chance to see him live, and provides Manilow with purpose during recovery.
• Critics question the strain of touring on recovery, and suggest extending the break to ensure full healing before returning to the road.
• Neutral observers note that many performers now work with highly adapted schedules and medical teams, and that a targeted, measured return is feasible when physicians clear it.

This balance between artist autonomy, financial and contractual obligations, and health risks is a common tension in live music, especially for veteran artists.

Legacy and what comes next

Manilow’s legacy is secure as a songwriter and performer whose songs have become part of popular culture. The current moment has prompted reflections on how artists plan the final chapters of long careers, including farewell tours, residencies, and selective one-off performances.

Promoters have already announced limited "farewell" or "last concert" dates in certain markets, and Manilow’s official pages indicate a sustained presence in Las Vegas through the end of the year. Whether he continues to add farewell dates will likely depend on his recovery, medical guidance, and his own assessment of stamina and voice.

What fans should know now

• January arena concerts will be rescheduled, and ticket holders will be contacted with options, including refunds or transfer dates.
• Manilow and his representatives have indicated an expected return to performance in February, conditional on surgical outcomes and recovery.
• The singer publicly encouraged people to seek medical evaluations if they have persistent symptoms, an appeal doctors say is worthwhile for early diagnosis in general.

Final note

At 82, Barry Manilow remains an active performer with a deep catalog and a devoted audience. The tone of his announcement, mixing humor and optimism, fits a long career built on connecting with listeners. For now, the focus will be on his surgery and recovery, and on watching how the music community and fans rally around an artist who has stood in the spotlight for decades.

If you hold tickets for any affected dates, check with your point of purchase for the latest rescheduling and refund information, and expect further updates from Manilow’s official channels as his medical team reports on recovery.