Barry Manilow checked in with fans on Friday, offering a reassuring health update amid his recent lung cancer diagnosis.
The 82-year-old “Copacabana” hitmaker, who shared news of his condition in late December, posted a selfie from his hospital bed on Instagram to let his followers know he’s feeling better. Alongside the photo, Manilow kept it simple, captioning the post: “Better Today!”
Wearing a green hospital gown and flashing a gentle smile, Manilow looked calm and upbeat — a sight that immediately put many fans at ease. Support quickly poured into the comments. Backup singer Melanie Taylor wrote, “That’s my boss y’all! He’s making it through the rain! Love you B!” complete with prayer emojis. Drummer Matt Sorum added, “Heal up Barry, much love.”
Manilow previously told fans that doctors discovered a cancerous spot on his left lung that would need to be surgically removed. The encouraging news: he would not require chemotherapy or radiation.
He explained that the issue was found after his doctor ordered an MRI following two prolonged bouts of bronchitis. “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 everything was OK,” Manilow wrote in December. He later called it “pure luck” that the spot was caught early.
According to the Mayo Clinic, lung nodules are fairly common and often benign, but they do require evaluation due to their potential connection to lung cancer.
Manilow has been candid about his longtime smoking history. He previously shared that he began smoking at just nine years old and continued for decades, later switching to vaping. He has been spotted vaping as recently as a few weeks ago in Palm Springs.
In a heartfelt December 22 post, Manilow explained that once his Christmas Gift of Love concerts wrapped, he would undergo surgery and take time to recover. “The doctors do not believe it has spread,” he wrote. “So that’s it. No chemo. No radiation. Just chicken soup and I Love Lucy reruns.”
As a result, his January 2026 arena tour dates — including stops in Orlando, Tampa, Charleston, Greensboro, and Columbus — will be rescheduled. “I’m very sorry that you have to change your plans,” he told fans, adding that he expects to return to performing in February.
“Something tells me February is going to be one big party,” Manilow wrote optimistically. He also used the moment to encourage others to prioritize their health, reminding fans to get tested if they notice even minor symptoms.
Despite the diagnosis, Manilow’s message remains clear: he’s healing, staying positive, and already looking ahead to getting back on stage — with gratitude, humor, and that unmistakable Barry Manilow spirit intact.