Barry Manilow Halts 2026 Tour After ‘Very Depressing’ Health Update—Fans Rally Behind the Music Icon

Las Vegas—February 23, 2026: Barry Manilow has postponed the opening leg of his highly anticipated 2026 arena tour after doctors advised the Grammy-winning singer to give his lungs more time to heal following cancer surgery. The 82-year-old icon revealed on Instagram that shows scheduled between February 27 and March 17 are being rescheduled, calling the verdict from his surgeon “very depressing” but necessary for a full comeback. Manilow’s latest setback comes two months after he announced that a stage-one cancerous spot had been removed from his left lung, a discovery he called “pure luck” during what was initially believed to be a stubborn case of bronchitis. Although the surgery was considered successful, the entertainer says he still becomes winded after three songs and is not yet ready to power through a 90-minute set. The postponed dates include high-profile stops in Orlando, Tampa, Cincinnati and Phoenix, all of which were near sell-outs thanks to the buzz around what Manilow has billed as his Farewell Arena Tour. Promoters confirm that tickets will be honored for the new dates, which management hopes to slot beginning in late March; refund options will be available at the original point of purchase. Despite the pause, fans of the “Copacabana” hitmaker still have reason for optimism. Manilow’s record-breaking Las Vegas residency at Westgate Resort—already the longest in the city’s history—is slated to resume this summer, provided doctors give the green light. In addition, seven new Northeast shows announced in January remain on the books for July and August, signaling confidence in the star’s long-term recovery. Industry analysts note that Manilow’s decision aligns with a broader trend of veteran artists prioritizing health over touring demands, a move that often results in stronger secondary ticket sales once performers return. Social media sentiment has likewise skewed supportive, with hashtags like #WeAreHere and #SpeedyRecoveryBarry trending within hours of his announcement. Fans are encouraged to monitor Manilow’s official website and social channels for updated itineraries. For now, the legendary crooner says he is “SO, SO sorry” but promises that when he does return, he will “COME BACK!!!” — a statement longtime “Fanilows” are more than ready to believe.