Iconic Singer Barry Manilow Will Have a Procedure for a Lung Cancer Diagnosis.

The singer has disclosed that he has been diagnosed with cancer of the lung and is set to have surgery.

Early-Stage Diagnosis

The legendary 82-year-old artist, famous for his series of beloved anthems from "Mandy" established him as one of pop music’s cherished showmen, will have a procedure to take out a section of lung tissue in an effort to combat the illness, which is detected early.

“As my fans are aware, I recently suffered from six weeks of a severe cough followed by a relapse of another five weeks.

“Even though I was over the bronchitis and back on stage in Las Vegas, my wonderful doctor requested an MRI just to ensure that all was clear.

“The MRI discovered a tumor on my lung that needs to be removed. It’s pure luck (and a great doctor) that it was discovered so early.”

Rescheduled Shows

He has delayed a string of forthcoming concerts, but suggested he would be on stage again by mid-February for his enduring residency in Las Vegas.

He added: “The doctors do not believe it has spread and I’m taking tests to verify their assessment. So, that’s it. No chemotherapy. No radiotherapy. Just rest and recuperation and I Love Lucy reruns.

“I’m counting the days until I rejoin my familiar venue at the Westgate Las Vegas for our February love-themed shows.”

A Long Career and Personal Life

Manilow is now in the 16th year of a show on the Las Vegas Strip. The singer has spent decades in the public eye and came out as gay in 2017, after wedding his partner of many years, Garry Kief privately in 2014.

The couple were in a private partnership for over 35 years. In 2023, Manilow discussed how crucial his partner had been to him during his ascent to stardom in the 1970s.

“During my rapid rise to fame, it was just crazy. And, you know, going back to an vacant room, you can land in a lot of trouble if you, you know, you’re alone repeatedly,” he said.

“But I encountered my future husband right around when it was taking off. And I was spared from having to go back to those empty hotel rooms. I had a partner to share sorrows with or to enjoy success with.

“I wish that newcomers today don’t have to go back to those rooms by themselves, because you might succumb to pitfalls. I never did. But it was quite isolating until I met Garry. And then it was fun.”