Music Icon Barry Manilow Diagnosed with Lung Cancer

82-year-old singer-songwriter credits early detection for catching cancer before it could spread.

Apr. 11, 2026 at 2:38am

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An extreme close-up photograph of a crumpled, glittering gold sequin fabric, capturing the glamour and showmanship of Barry Manilow's legendary music career while conceptually representing the impact of his recent lung cancer diagnosis.The glittering, high-fashion texture of Barry Manilow's storied music career is now tempered by his recent lung cancer diagnosis, underscoring the importance of proactive healthcare.Palm Springs Today

In a candid announcement, legendary singer-songwriter Barry Manilow revealed he has been diagnosed with lung cancer. The 82-year-old music icon credits his vigilant doctor for catching the cancerous spot on his left lung early through an MRI ordered as a precaution for recurring bronchitis. Manilow will undergo surgery, leading him to reschedule his upcoming January shows, with performances resuming in late February.

Why it matters

Manilow's story highlights the importance of proactive health management and the need to prioritize preventative care. His diagnosis raises crucial questions about how often people ignore minor health symptoms, potentially missing opportunities for early cancer detection. The news sparks debate about access to healthcare and the stigma around seeking medical advice for seemingly minor issues.

The details

Manilow shared the news on Instagram, explaining that the recurring bronchitis prompted his doctor to order an MRI as a precaution. The results revealed the cancerous spot, which will require surgery. 'It's pure luck and a great doctor that it was found so early,' he wrote, adding that tests are underway to confirm the cancer hasn't spread. The surgery means Manilow's January shows for his Christmas: A Gift of Love tour will be rescheduled, with performances resuming after his Valentine's weekend concerts in Las Vegas.

  • Manilow shared the news on Monday, April 11, 2026.
  • The rescheduled tour dates will run from late February through April 2026.

The players

Barry Manilow

An 82-year-old Grammy, Tony, and Emmy Award-winning singer-songwriter, best known for timeless hits like 'Copacabana' and 'Mandy.' Manilow was inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2002 and has been married to his husband, Garry Kief, since 2014.

Garry Kief

Barry Manilow's husband, with whom he resides in Palm Springs, California.

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What they’re saying

“It's pure luck and a great doctor that it was found so early.”

— Barry Manilow, Singer-songwriter

“If you have even the slightest symptom, get tested!”

— Barry Manilow, Singer-songwriter

What’s next

Manilow will undergo surgery to remove the cancerous spot on his left lung, and tests are underway to confirm the cancer has not spread. His January shows for the Christmas: A Gift of Love tour will be rescheduled, with performances resuming after his Valentine's weekend concerts in Las Vegas. The new tour dates will run from late February through April 2026.

The takeaway

Manilow's diagnosis serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of proactive health management and the need to prioritize preventative care. His story sparks crucial conversations about how often people ignore minor health symptoms and the potential consequences of delaying medical attention. This news highlights the ongoing debate about access to healthcare and the stigma around seeking advice for seemingly minor issues, underscoring the need for a societal shift toward a more proactive approach to personal well-being.