Barry Manilow Postpones Arena Tour Dates Amid Continued Lung Cancer Recovery
Barry Manilow, the celebrated singer-songwriter, is delaying the first leg of his highly anticipated arena tour as he continues to recover from surgery related to lung cancer. The 82-year-old artist announced the postponement Friday, citing his body’s need for more time to heal.
Manilow revealed in a message posted on X, formerly Twitter, that a recent visit with his surgeon was “very depressing.” Despite diligently working to regain his stamina – including daily treadmill workouts – he found himself limited to singing only three songs in a row before needing to stop.
“I told him that I have been using the treadmill three times a day (I have), but that I still couldn’t sing more than three songs in a row before I had to stop,” Manilow wrote. His surgeon advised him against undertaking a 90-minute show at this time, stating, “Barry, you won’t be ready to do a 90-minute show. Your lungs aren’t ready yet. You’re in great shape considering what you’ve been through, but your body isn’t ready. You shouldn’t do the first arena shows. You won’t make it through.”
The postponed shows were originally scheduled to run from February 27 through March 17. Manilow acknowledged he anticipated the news, adding, “Deep down, I wanted to go back—but my body knew what my heart didn’t want to admit: I wasn’t ready.”
This latest setback follows Manilow’s initial announcement in December that he had been diagnosed with lung cancer after a bout of bronchitis led to the discovery of a “cancerous spot.” He underwent surgery in mid-January to remove the spot, describing the early detection as a matter of “pure luck” and crediting his doctor for the diagnosis.
Despite the postponement, Manilow expressed optimism about resuming his tour schedule. His doctor indicated a potential return to performing in Las Vegas at the end of March and beginning of April. “I’m SO, SO sorry I have to reschedule some of these first Arena shows. Again!” Manilow wrote. “But when I do come back, I will COME BACK!!!”
Manilow’s website still lists sold-out U.S. Concert dates scheduled for mid- to late April, though his representatives have been contacted for further information regarding rescheduled dates.
The singer’s decades-long career has produced numerous hits, including “Mandy,” “Copacabana,” and “I Write the Songs.” He continues to enjoy a devoted fanbase and remains a prominent figure in popular music.
