Barry Manilow’s Battle with Lung Cancer

Barry Manilow has successfully fought off stage 1 lung cancer, but uncertainty remains about his return to performing. The music legend shared that the struggle with cancer has significantly drained his energy, making it tough for him to perform like he used to.

In an interview, he revealed that he underwent a lobectomy, which involved the removal of one lobe from his left lung, a critical area that facilitates oxygen delivery to the bloodstream. “My voice is coming back. My energy is coming back. But the shows I’m doing are full of energy, so I’m not there yet,” he expressed. Manilow emphasized the physical demands of his performances, stating, “You can’t get through 90 minutes unless you’re in top shape, and I know I couldn’t make it through that today.”

With a hint of frustration, he admitted, “I’m beyond frustrated and sad that I can’t do what I love.” Since his recovery, he has made some attempts to return to music, but he acknowledged not feeling as lively as before. “I don’t like it, but my body doesn’t want to get to that point yet,” he remarked, reflecting on the impact of the surgery.

Manilow has been focusing on vocal exercises and breathing strategies to regain his former strength. “I have to learn how to breathe again,” he said, incredulously. It’s strange to think about, isn’t it? Beyond the frustration, it’s truly sad that he can’t engage in his passion fully.

He’s also working to regain the weight he lost during treatment, hitting the treadmill multiple times a day to build back his stamina. “I’m still in pain, but I’m starting to feel better,” he reported. Yet, he expressed uncertainty about being ready for the next step in his recovery, saying, “I don’t know if I can go to the next level yet. It’s not even a doctor’s order—it’s my body that won’t let me do it.”

The 82-year-old star has postponed his farewell arena tour, initially planned to kick off on April 12. As of now, it’s unclear if that date will still hold.

“Let’s see if we can go back,” he remarked hopefully. Reflecting on the overwhelming support from fans during his health scare, he shared, “This experience in the hospital was the deepest chapter of my life. So many people were sending me wonderful messages, and although it should have been terrifying, those notes made it manageable.”