Singer Barry Manilow shared that he has lung cancer and reportedly underwent surgery yesterday (December 23) after it was “found early”.
The 82-year-old entertainer announced his diagnosis on Monday (December 22) by sharing a statement with fans on social media. He was forced to postpone his concerts in the new year.
‘Barry is terrified’
According to The Sun, Barry had his surgery on Tuesday, two days before Christmas Day.
“Barry’s surgery will be at a hospital in Palm Springs, near his home, and he is expected to remain in the hospital for three days while he recovers,” an inside source told the newspaper.
“Barry is terrified,” they added.
Despite the legend’s plan to return to the stage in February, there have been concerns from his inner circle that he might not be able to sing again.
“It’s awful. It’s bad. I’m not sure he will sing again,” an insider previously told The Sun.
Barry Manilow announces cancer diagnosis
In an Instagram post, Barry wrote: “As many of you know, I recently went through six weeks of bronchitis followed by a relapse of another five weeks.”
“Even though I was over the bronchitis and back on stage at the Westgate Las Vegas, my wonderful doctor ordered an MRI just to make sure that everything was OK.
“The MRI discovered a cancerous spot on my left lung that needs to be removed. It’s pure luck (and a great doctor) that is was found so early. That’s the good news.”
Barry continued: “The bad news is that now that the Christmas Gift Of Love concerts are over, I’m going into surgery to have the spot removed. The doctors do not believe it has spread and I’m taking tests to confirm their diagnosis.”
The Mandy hitmaker explained that he doesn’t need chemo or radiation. Instead, “just chicken soup and I Love Lucy reruns.”
Barry said that the “only follow-up is a month to recover”, which meant he had to reschedule his January arena concerts.
In another slide, Barry shared the rescheduled dates, including his Las Vegas shows, which will now take place in February. He urged his fans to “get tested” if they “even have the slightest symptom”.
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‘Please take good care of yourself’
Following the announcement, Barry’s fans rushed to the comments section to share their support.
“Sending you healing vibes and good wishes for a quick recovery,” one user wrote.
“Take care of yourself, Mr. Manilow! We love you!!!!” another person shared.
“Sending much love to you, Barry! Please take good care of yourself and know that I will keep you in my prayers,” a third remarked.
“You will be in my prayers, dear friend! Take care of you, and we will see you soon,” a fourth said.
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