Barry Manilow canceled his concert in Lexington, Kentucky, on Tuesday, just 45 minutes before it was scheduled to begin, citing "unforeseen circumstances." The singer, who has been undergoing treatment for lung cancer, shared the news via his X account.
The late cancellation drew mixed reactions online, with some concertgoers expressing frustration while others offered messages of support and encouragement to the 82-year-old performer.
Manilow revealed his diagnosis of early-stage lung cancer in December. Doctors discovered a cancerous spot on his left lung after he experienced a prolonged bout of bronchitis. He shared at the time that the spot needed to be removed surgically and that doctors believed it had not spread. He noted that he would not require chemotherapy or radiation.
Following the diagnosis and subsequent surgery, Manilow had to reschedule additional tour dates in February and March. He explained in a social media post that his surgeon advised him he was not yet ready for the physical demands of a 90-minute performance.
In May, Manilow announced further cancellations of his Las Vegas residency dates, stating he was making progress with his treatment but was not yet ready for the Vegas shows. However, he expressed optimism about returning to the stage, indicating he anticipated being ready for arena shows in the UK in June and returning to Las Vegas in July.