Barry Manilow has revealed he has overcome stage 1 lung cancer after undergoing major surgery, though his path back to the stage remains uncertain.
The 82-year-old music icon had a lobectomy to remove one of two lobes from his left lung, a significant operation that has fundamentally altered his physical capabilities.
Speaking to People, Mr Manilow said: “My voice is coming back. My energy is coming back. But it’s not there yet because the shows that I do are full of energy. And unless you’re in top-notch shape, you can’t make it through 90 minutes. And I know I, today, I couldn’t make it through 90 minutes.”
The setback has forced postponement of his farewell arena tour.
The star opened up about his recent cancer journey
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The veteran performer made no attempt to conceal his disappointment at being kept away from live audiences.
“It’s incredibly frustrating and upsetting not to be able to do what I’ve always loved,” Manilow stated.
Despite receiving confirmation that he is now cancer-free, the singer disclosed that his recuperation has proved considerably more difficult and protracted than he had expected.
He has cautiously begun working with music again, yet maintains he is nowhere near ready for full-scale shows.
His energy levels have stubbornly refused to return to their previous state, with his body simply not responding as he would wish.
Losing part of his lung has meant relearning basic physical functions, with breath control and everyday stamina now requiring conscious effort.
Mr Manilow described the experience of essentially teaching himself to breathe again as “crazy”.
Determined to return to performing, Mr Manilow has thrown himself into an intensive rehabilitation programme.
His recovery regime includes vocal exercises, breathing lessons and demanding physical training, with multiple treadmill sessions each day.
He is also working to regain weight lost during his treatment.
The singer had to learn how to breathe again after his medical treatment
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Yet despite his commitment, the singer acknowledged that his progress remains unpredictable.
“I’m still going through it, but I’m pulling myself back together,” he said.
“I’m not even sure I can go to the next level yet. My body doesn’t want to take me there. It’s not even doctor’s orders, it’s my body’s orders — it won’t let me do it.”
This uncertainty has cast doubt over his planned return date of April 12.
“We’ll see if I can make it back,” he admitted.
Mr Manilow mentioned his body wouldn’t allow to him go all the way with his singing
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Mr Manilow also reflected on the emotional weight of his illness, describing his time in hospital as one of the most significant periods he has ever experienced.
Messages of support from admirers across the globe helped sustain him through what could have been an unbearable ordeal.
“This experience in the hospital was the deepest chapter I’ve ever had in my life,” he said.
“There were that many people out there said the most beautiful things to me over and over. It should be a horrible experience and it was. But those notes and those, those people made it made it doable.”
The outpouring of affection from fans worldwide transformed what might otherwise have been an isolating experience into something he could endure.
One fan commented on Instagram: “You have brought so much joy to our lives Barry! Your music has always inspired me to dance!”
Another added: “Can’t wait for your comeback and loving the new album! Definitely some great new material for CarConcertGuy.”
Someone else said: “This is a wonderful interview Barry! Your dedication to your fans, your craft and your team comes shining through with beautiful authenticity and humility. One day at a time – you’re making your way back! We love you.” (sic)
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