Barry Manilow, the legendary singer known for hits like “Mandy” and “Copacabana,” is facing a difficult chapter in his life as he continues to recover from lung cancer. During an appearance on Good Morning America on Monday, June 1, the 82-year-old artist shared a deeply emotional update about his health and his uncertainty regarding his upcoming summer tour.
“I don’t know if my voice is coming back,” he said, his voice breaking with emotion. “I did my first sound check about a month ago, and I didn’t sound like me at all. I just couldn’t believe that. That it’s over.”
Despite being “doing good” in terms of his overall health, Manilow admitted that the recovery process has been longer than expected. He revealed that it took more time than he anticipated to move past his battle with lung cancer.
As previously reported, the “Copacabana” singer underwent a lobectomy at the end of last year after doctors discovered a cancerous spot on his lung following an MRI in November 2025.
“They checked my lungs and they found the dot. The spot. That thing that you don’t want to ever have,” he explained. “They said I had lung cancer and we have to get it out.”
After the surgery, Manilow faced further complications. He spent seven days in the ICU due to pneumonia, a period he described as one of the most terrifying times of his life.
“This May Be Goodbye”
“I was in ICU for seven days. It was terrifying,” he candidly confessed. “There were a couple of moments there that I thought, you know, this may be goodbye.”
Even during these challenging times, Manilow expressed gratitude for the support he received from friends, family, and fans around the world.
“The thing that shocked me was all the people around the world being concerned about me,” the “Mandy” hitmaker reflected. “It was note after note after note about, you know, we’re praying for you.”
“I Really Don’t Want to Cry on Stage”
Although his physical strength remains uncertain, Manilow is determined to return to the stage this summer.
“I can’t wait to get back,” he excitedly shared. “I’m in great shape. I’m ready to go. I just hope my voice is.”
Manilow continued, “If I sound good, that would be just great. I really don’t want to cry on stage, but I don’t know whether I’ll be able to hold that back this time.”
His journey has been filled with challenges, but his resilience and passion for music continue to shine through. Fans are hoping for a triumphant return, not just for the sake of his career, but for the joy his music brings to so many people.
As he prepares for what lies ahead, Manilow remains hopeful, even as he faces the unknown with courage and determination.
