Music Legend Shares Personal Battle
Barry Manilow has broken his silence about a health challenge, revealing a lung cancer diagnosis shortly after his holiday shows. The 82-year-old singer shared a hospital photo with a hopeful message, prompting an outpouring of love and support from fans worldwide.
Diagnosis Comes After Persistent Bronchitis
On December 21, 2025, Manilow announced on Instagram that he had been diagnosed with lung cancer. The illness followed a six-week bout of bronchitis, then a second five-week relapse. Doctors ordered an MRI, which detected a small cancerous spot on his left lung.
Manilow credited the early detection to “pure luck” and a skilled physician. He confirmed he would undergo surgery to remove the spot but reassured fans that chemotherapy and radiation were not required. During recovery, he joked about relying on chicken soup and “I Love Lucy” reruns.
Charity Concerts Wrap Up
The announcement came shortly after his seventh annual Christmas charity concert series at the McCallum Theatre in Palm Desert. These shows raised millions for nonprofit groups in California’s Coachella Valley and remain a highlight of Manilow’s year.
On January 2, 2026, Manilow posted a smiling photo from a hospital bed with the caption, “Better Today!” Social media erupted with messages of encouragement. One fan wrote, “Keep healing. Barry… You can do it. God is good all the time.” Another joked, “You even make that hospital gown look fine! 😉🥰 Be well! ❤️”
