Barry Manilow Postpones Arena Dates After Surgeon Advises More Recovery Time

Barry Manilow has postponed the opening stretch of his arena tour following medical advice that he is not yet physically ready to resume full-length performances after lung cancer surgery.

In a statement shared Friday, the 82-year-old singer said a recent follow-up appointment with his surgeon made clear that returning to the stage for 90-minute arena shows would be premature. Manilow revealed in December that doctors had discovered a cancerous spot on his lung, which was subsequently removed. The surgery forced him to delay the start of his 2026 farewell tour, originally scheduled to begin in January.

Although he had hoped to proceed with the rescheduled February dates, Manilow said his recovery has not progressed quickly enough to meet the demands of a full concert. He explained that he has been working diligently to rebuild stamina, including walking on a treadmill multiple times a day. Even so, he acknowledged that he cannot yet sing more than three songs consecutively without needing to stop.

According to Manilow, his surgeon told him plainly that his lungs are not prepared for the sustained exertion required by a 90-minute show. While the doctor reportedly noted that he is in good condition, given what he has endured, the medical recommendation was to avoid the first round of arena performances.

As a result, Manilow will postpone the initial batch of shows scheduled from Feb. 27 through March 17. He indicated that, pending further evaluation, he may still be able to fulfill his Las Vegas residency dates toward the end of March, followed by additional arena concerts in early April.

The decision marks the second time this year that Manilow has had to adjust tour plans. In February, he announced a prior delay, citing the need for more recovery time before returning to live performance. His latest update underscores the physical demands of touring, particularly following thoracic surgery.

Manilow described the situation as difficult but necessary. While he expressed a strong personal desire to return to the stage, he acknowledged that his body is not yet capable of sustaining the required performance level. The farewell tour, which has been framed as a closing chapter in a career spanning more than five decades, remains a significant milestone for the singer and his audience.

Over the course of his career, Manilow has sold tens of millions of records and maintained a steady presence in touring circuits, including a long-running Las Vegas residency. His catalog includes enduring hits such as “Mandy,” “Copacabana (At the Copa)” and “I Write the Songs.” Even in his eighties, he has continued to perform regularly, drawing multigenerational audiences.

In his statement, Manilow thanked fans for their patience and support, emphasizing that the postponement is intended to ensure he can return at full strength rather than risk compromising his recovery. He reiterated that his body has been through a significant medical event and requires additional time to heal.

Revised dates for the postponed arena shows are expected to be announced. For now, Manilow’s team is prioritizing medical guidance as he continues rehabilitation, with the goal of resuming performances later this spring if cleared to do so.