Barry Manilow Postpones More Shows, Cites Lung Recovery

The legendary singer is still healing from recent cancer surgery.

Published on Feb. 21, 2026

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Barry Manilow has postponed several upcoming arena concert dates, saying his lungs are not yet ready for the physical demands of a 90-minute performance. The 79-year-old singer recently underwent surgery to remove a cancerous spot from his left lung and is still recovering from the procedure.

Why it matters

Manilow's health issues and postponed concert dates highlight the challenges faced by aging musicians as they navigate the physical toll of performing live. His openness about his cancer treatment and recovery process also sheds light on the realities of managing serious health conditions while maintaining a high-profile entertainment career.

The details

Manilow revealed in December that a recent MRI had detected a cancerous spot on his left lung, which required surgery to remove. After recovering from several weeks of bronchitis, the singer said his doctor told him his lungs were not yet ready to handle the demands of a full 90-minute concert. As a result, Manilow has postponed a series of arena shows scheduled from February 27 to March 17 in cities across the Southeast and Midwest.

  • In December 2025, Manilow revealed he had a cancerous spot on his left lung that needed to be removed.
  • Earlier this month, Manilow said the surgery went well and he was recovering.
  • On February 21, 2026, Manilow postponed his arena concert dates from February 27 to March 17.

The players

Barry Manilow

A legendary 79-year-old singer who recently underwent surgery to remove a cancerous spot from his left lung.

Manilow's Surgeon

The doctor who advised Manilow that his lungs were not yet ready for the physical demands of a 90-minute concert performance.

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What they’re saying

“Your lungs aren't ready. You're in great shape, considering what you've been through, but your body isn't ready.”

— Manilow's Surgeon

“I had met with my surgeon, and he said, 'Your lungs aren't ready. You're in great shape, considering what you've been through, but your body isn't ready.' That was very depressing.”

— Barry Manilow, Singer (9news.com)

What’s next

Manilow said he would reschedule the postponed shows once his lungs have fully recovered from the surgery.

The takeaway

Manilow's health issues and postponed concerts underscore the physical challenges faced by aging musicians, who must balance the demands of performing live with managing serious medical conditions. His openness about his cancer treatment and recovery process provides a glimpse into the realities of maintaining a high-profile entertainment career while navigating significant health challenges.