Barry Manilow Shares ‘Depressing’ Update About His Health Setbacks & Postponed Shows

Mar 02, 2026 by apost team

Born on June 17, 1943, Barry Manilow built a reputation as one of the most recognizable voices in popular music, with a career spanning more than six decades. His catalog includes 51 Top 40 singles on the Adult Contemporary Chart, 13 of which reached the number-one spot.

Twenty-eight of his songs entered the top 10, and 36 landed in the top 20, helping secure his place in the music industry. Manilow also released 13 platinum albums and six multi-platinum records, underscoring his enduring popularity worldwide.

While critics have sometimes debated his style, his fellow performers often recognized his talent. In the 1970s, Frank Sinatra publicly predicted that “he’s next.” Sinatra believed Manilow would become a major star, reinforcing the respect he commanded within professional circles.

Unfortunately, on Jan. 3, 2026, Manilow disclosed that doctors identified a cancerous spot on his left lung following several weeks of bronchitis. He posted a hospital photo and reassured supporters that his recovery was already underway. The message reflected both vulnerability and determination, themes that have defined many chapters of his life and career.

On Feb. 20, 2026, Manilow issued another personal update. His message signaled that adjustments might be necessary, even as he expressed hope about continuing to connect with fans through his music.

The announcement underscored how health realities can influence even the most carefully planned tours while reminding audiences of the resilience required to remain in the spotlight for decades.

In the announcement, Manilow explained that a follow-up appointment with his surgeon raised new challenges ahead of his anticipated return to performing. Describing the appointment as “very depressing,” Manilow revealed that the conversation with his surgeon forced him to reconsider his immediate plans.

In his candid Instagram message, he explained how the visit shaped his next steps and prompted him to rethink his schedule.

“Just got home from visiting the surgeon,” he began, explaining that although he had been using the treadmill three times a day, he still could not sing more than three songs consecutively without pausing.

Confident he could push through upcoming arena performances, he told his doctor he expected to be ready. The response was direct.

“Barry, you won’t be ready to do a 90-minute show. Your lungs aren’t ready yet... You won’t make it through,” the surgeon replied, according to Manilow’s post.

At age 82 at the time of writing, the performer accepted the advice and rescheduled his first run of arena shows that had been set to run from Feb. 27 through March 17, 2026. Even so, optimism remained. He noted that his Las Vegas appearances scheduled for the end of March 2026, along with additional arena performances in April 2026, could still proceed as planned.

He also shared the reflection that resonated most strongly with fans:

“The doctor said that my body had been through hell and that it needed time to heal.”

For now, his focus rests on recovery, paired with a promise that captured his determination:

“I will COME BACK!!!”

Earlier, on Feb. 4, 2026, he shared encouraging news following surgery, explaining that recovery was progressing and that he had resumed light exercise while returning to the studio briefly. Under medical advice, he postponed his residency dates at Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Casino from Feb. 12 to Feb. 21, 2026, to prioritize healing ahead of the tour.

He added that his doctor recommended additional rest and confirmed that tickets for postponed shows would be refunded. The message carried a hopeful tone, even after weeks marked by uncertainty.

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Barry Manilow’s resilience is truly inspiring. Which Barry Manilow song holds special meaning for you? Let us know, and then pass this on to fans of the legendary musician.