Barry Manilow to Undergo an Operation for a Lung Cancer Diagnosis.
The singer has disclosed that he was diagnosed with a cancerous growth in his lung and will be having an operation.
Cancer Caught Early
The octogenarian performer, known for a string of upbeat chart-toppers from "Copacabana" cemented his status as one of pop music’s most beloved performers, will have surgery to remove part of his lung in an effort to combat the disease, which is in its early stages.
“As many of you know, I recently suffered from six weeks of bronchitis followed by a relapse of another five weeks.
“Despite the fact that I was over the bronchitis and back on stage in Las Vegas, my wonderful doctor insisted on an MRI just to ensure that all was clear.
“The MRI identified a cancerous spot on my lung that needs to be removed. It’s incredible chance (and a skilled doctor) that it was discovered so early.”
Postponed Performances
He has delayed a series of planned shows, but indicated he would be on stage again by Valentine’s Day for his longstanding residency in Las Vegas.
He went on to say: “The physicians do not believe it has traveled and I’m taking tests to support their conclusion. So, that’s it. No chemotherapy. No radiotherapy. Just home remedies and classic TV.
“I’m looking forward to until I return to my familiar venue for our Vegas run for our February love-themed shows.”
Decades in the Spotlight
Manilow is now in the 16th year of a residency on the Las Vegas Strip. The singer has spent decades in the spotlight and publicly identified as gay in 2017, after tying the knot with his partner of many years, Garry Kief in secret in 2014.
The couple were in a discreet romance for more than 35 years. Last year, Manilow spoke about how crucial his husband had been to him during his explosion in popularity in the 1970s.
“When my fame skyrocketed, it was just overwhelming. And, you know, returning to an empty hotel room, you can get into a lot of trouble if you, you know, you’re alone evening after evening,” he said.
“But I encountered my future husband right around when it was blowing up. And I was spared from having to go back to those empty hotel rooms. I had a person to share sorrows with or to share joys with.
“I hope that young people don’t have to go back to those suites by themselves, because you can make poor choices. I never did. But it was pretty lonely until I met Garry. And then it was fun.”