LOS ANGELES — Singer-songwriter and music producer Barry Manilow announced Monday that doctors diagnosed him with lung cancer after an MRI revealed a cancerous spot on his left lung. He said physicians caught the disease early and do not believe it has spread.
Manilow, 82, shared the news in a post on Instagram, calling the diagnosis “pure luck” and crediting his doctor for ordering the scan.
Illness Discovered After Weeks of Bronchitis
Manilow said he recently endured six weeks of bronchitis, followed by a relapse that lasted another five weeks. After his symptoms resolved and he returned to performing in Las Vegas, his doctor ordered an MRI as a precaution.
“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.”
Doctors plan to remove the cancer surgically. Manilow said tests so far show no signs of spread.
“So, that’s it,” he wrote. “No chemo. No radiation. Just chicken soup and I Love Lucy reruns.”
Surgery to Impact January Tour Dates
Manilow said he will undergo surgery following the conclusion of his holiday concerts. As a result, he will reschedule his January arena shows.
“I’m very sorry that you have to change your plans,” he told fans. “We were all looking forward to the January shows and hate having to move everything around.”
Manilow shared updated tour dates in his post. The affected concerts now will take place in late February, March, and April. Ticket holders can use their existing tickets for the new dates.
Plans to Return to the Stage in February
Despite the diagnosis, Manilow said he expects to return to performing in February 2026. He plans to resume his residency at the Westgate Las Vegas with concerts scheduled for Feb. 12, 13, and 14.
“I’m counting the days until I return to my home away from home,” he wrote. “Something tells me that February weekend is going to be one big party.”
Manilow closed his message with holiday wishes and a note of caution for fans.
“If you have even the slightest symptom,” he wrote, “get tested!”
Lung Cancer Screening and Awareness
Medical experts stress the importance of evaluating persistent respiratory symptoms. Physicians often begin with imaging and determine next steps based on age, risk factors, and medical history.
According to the American Cancer Society, lung cancer remains the leading cause of cancer death in the United States. The disease accounts for about 1 in 5 cancer-related deaths nationwide.
Lung cancer is also the second most common cancer in both men and women, excluding skin cancer. The organization estimates the lifetime risk at about 1 in 17 for men and 1 in 18 for women.
Doctors recommend lung cancer screening with a low-dose CT scan for certain high-risk adults, including long-term current or former smokers. Experts advise discussing screening decisions with a health care provider.
