Barry Manilow Postpones Early Year Concert to Undergo Surgery
JAKARTA - Legendary American singer Barry Manilow must immediately go to the operating table after the medical team found a cancer spot in his lungs.
This sudden medical decision forced the 82-year-old singer to reschedule a number of his concert series that had been planned for early 2026.
This announcement was made directly by Manilow, right after he finished a series of Christmas concerts titled A Gift of Love.
The origin of the discovery of cancer cells occurred accidentally. Manilow said, he had struggled against bronchitis for six weeks, which was followed by a relapse for the next five weeks.
The physical condition that has not stabilized has prompted him to undergo a thorough medical examination by a doctor.
During the examination, the doctor found indications of a cancer spot in Manilow's left lung that must be removed immediately.
Although this news sounds worrying, Manilow tried to calm his fans by stating that he did not need aggressive treatments such as chemotherapy after the surgery.
"The bad news is that after the Christmas concert A Gift of Love ends, I will have surgery to remove the point," Manilow wrote, quoting the caption of an Instagram post, Wednesday, December 24.
"The doctors are not sure it has spread and I am having tests to confirm their diagnosis. So, that's it. No chemo. No radiation," he continued.
The impact of this medical procedure is felt directly on his tour schedule. Manilow confirmed that he needs at least one month for a total recovery period. As a result, several arena concert schedules that were originally scheduled for January 2026 had to be shifted.
The singer of "Copacabana" also expressed his deep apology to fans who had bought tickets and made travel plans.
"I'm so sorry you had to change your plans. Like you, we all look forward to the January show and hate to have to move everything," Manilow said.
However, he remains optimistic and aims to return to the Westgate Las Vegas stage right on Valentine's weekend, on February 12, 13, and 14, 2026.
At the end of his statement, Manilow slipped an emotional message as well as a health warning for the general public not to underestimate even the smallest symptoms.
"I hope you have a wonderful Christmas and a Happy New Year. And remember, if you have any symptoms, get tested! See you at Westgate Las Vegas for Valentine's," he concluded.