82-Year-Old Legend Barry Manilow Breaks His Silence with an Emotional Update from His Hospital Bed.

Introduction

“Better Today!”: Barry Manilow Shares Resilient Hospital Selfie After Lung Cancer Diagnosis

Music icon Barry Manilow is showing the world that he is truly “making it through the rain.” On Friday, Jan. 2, 2026, the 82-year-old legendary singer shared a heartening health update directly from his hospital bed, following his recent lung cancer diagnosis.

Taking to Instagram, the “Copacabana” performer posted a selfie that instantly captured the hearts of his global fanbase. Dressed in a standard green hospital gown but sporting a brave expression, Manilow kept his message short and sweet, simply captioning the photo: “Better Today!”

The “Lucky” Discovery

The update follows a sobering revelation from December 2025, when Manilow first informed fans that a cancerous spot had been discovered on his left lung. The diagnosis was the result of what the singer described as “pure luck” and a highly proactive medical team.

The path to discovery was a long one. Manilow had endured six weeks of persistent bronchitis, followed by an additional five-week relapse. While he had successfully recovered from the respiratory infection and even returned to the stage for his residency at the Westgate Las Vegas, his physician ordered a follow-up MRI just to ensure a clean bill of health. It was during this precautionary scan that the early-stage tumor was identified.

“It’s pure luck (and a great doctor) that it was found so early,” Manilow explained in a statement. “The doctors do not believe it was spread and I’m taking tests to confirm their diagnosis.” Because the cancer was caught so early, the treatment plan avoided the grueling paths of chemotherapy and radiation. Instead, Manilow underwent surgery to remove the spot, joking that his post-operative care would consist of “just chicken soup and I Love Lucy reruns.”

A Wave of Support

The “Mandy” musician’s post was immediately met with an outpouring of love from his inner circle and fans alike. His longtime backup singer, Melanie Taylor, offered a spirited comment: “That’s my boss y’all! He’s making it through the rain! Love you B!” referring to his 1974 hit. Former Guns N’ Roses drummer Matt Sorum also chimed in, wishing the legend a speedy recovery: “Heal up Barry, much love.”

The Spirit of a Showman

Despite the health challenge, Manilow remains remarkably optimistic. He has previously spoken about how maintaining a busy schedule keeps him “vibrant” and “strong.” In a June 2025 interview with Billboard, he reflected on his longevity, noting that he is one of the few active performers left from his era.

For Manilow, retirement isn’t an option as long as his voice holds up. He famously stated that the day he can no longer hit the F natural in his 1978 hit “Even Now” would be the night he “throws in the towel.” Judging by his latest update, that day is still a long way off. For now, the focus is on a full recovery and a triumphant return to the spotlight he has occupied for over five decades.