Barry Manilow has shared a new update on his health after undergoing surgery to remove part of his lung following a cancer diagnosis — a shock revelation that forced the legendary singer to cancel a run of live performances.
The 82-year-old crooner posted a hospital selfie on Instagram last week and, despite the ordeal, is already looking ahead to a return to the stage. His team later announced the surprise addition of six comeback concerts to his March schedule.
Writing on social media, they said: “SURPRISE!!! Barry is feeling great… so great that he’s decided to add six additional concerts to his existing March schedule.”
The new shows will take place in Charlotte, Norfolk, Baltimore, Cincinnati, Nashville and Lexington on March 1, 2, 3, 5, 7 and 9.
The post concluded with an emotional message to fans: “Years from now, when you look back on these dates, you’ll want to know you were there to say goodbye.”
Supporters flooded the comments with love. One wrote: “Can’t wait!! Glad you are feeling good!” Another added: “Great news! I hope it’s not too fast after your surgery. Please don’t tire yourself out!!!!” A third simply said: “Barry, we love you so much.”
Smiling from his hospital bed, Barry previously told fans he was “better today” as he recovered. That message earlier this month was his first public statement since he revealed his diagnosis on December 22.
At the time, Barry explained that he had battled six weeks of bronchitis, followed by another five-week relapse. Although he returned to the stage at the Westgate Las Vegas, his doctor ordered an MRI — just to be safe.
The scan discovered a cancerous spot on his left lung.
“It’s pure luck (and a great doctor) that it was found so early,” Barry wrote. “That’s the good news.”
He then shared the tougher reality: once his Christmas Gift Of Love concerts were complete, he would undergo surgery to remove the cancer.
“The doctors do not believe it has spread and I’m taking tests to confirm their diagnosis,” he said at the time.
“So that’s it. No chemo. No radiation. Just chicken soup and I Love Lucy reruns.”
However, he added that January shows in Orlando, Tampa, Charleston, Greensboro and Columbus had to be postponed — though they have since been rescheduled for March.
His long-awaited return will now begin on February 27 at the Benchmark International Arena in Tampa, Florida.
Before his diagnosis, Barry had told fans: “Something tells me February is going to be one big party…”
After the news broke, insiders revealed that Barry had been “terrified” ahead of the operation. The surgery took place in Palm Springs, near his home, where he was expected to remain in hospital for three days during recovery.
Despite the health scare, Barry’s career — spanning more than six decades — continues to shine. With iconic hits including Could It Be Magic, Copacabana and Mandy, he remains one of the most celebrated performers in music history, covered by stars from Take That to Westlife and championed by legends such as Frank Sinatra.
