Barry Manilow Returns to Las Vegas Stage After Cancer Treatment

Barry Manilow made a triumphant return to his Las Vegas residency at the Westgate Las Vegas on Thursday night, marking his first performance since undergoing treatment for lung cancer. The 83-year-old singer had taken a break from his schedule following surgery in December to remove a cancerous spot on his lung.

Manilow, who revealed his diagnosis late last year, has been recovering from the procedure that led to the postponement of several shows earlier in the year. Despite the hiatus, he performed a full set, telling the audience, "I'm back!" His return was met with enthusiastic cheers, and as underwear was thrown onto the stage, Manilow quipped, "I feel like I'm a teenage idol again."

After a summer tour that included 29 shows and a six-city UK arena tour, Manilow had to cancel two dates of his Las Vegas residency in August due to "technical and vocal problems." He subsequently announced he would take time off until October 8. The singer had previously postponed shows from February through mid-March, as his doctor advised his body was not yet ready for the demands of a 90-minute concert.

Manilow, a lifelong smoker who later transitioned to vaping, discovered the tumor after experiencing prolonged bouts of bronchitis. The cancer was detected as stage one, and doctors did not believe it had spread. He underwent surgery for removal, foregoing chemotherapy and radiation.

In an interview earlier this year, Manilow reflected that his health scare had prompted him to take stock of his life and consider his legacy. He noted that the experience had stopped him "in my tracks" and led him to think about whether he had accomplished what he set out to do and if he had made people happy.

His latest album, "What a Time," his 33rd studio album, was released in June. The lead single, "Once Before I Go," was co-written by the late Australian singer Peter Allen.