Barry Manilow Expresses Uncertainty About Voice Recovery Following Lung Cancer Surgery

Barry Manilow is confronting serious questions about his voice following a left lung lobectomy performed to treat his lung cancer diagnosis.

During an interview with Chris Connelly on Good Morning America that aired Monday, June 1, the Grammy-winning performer discussed the vocal challenges he's faced in the aftermath of surgery. "My voice — I don't know whether it's coming back," he told the host. "I did my first sound check about a month ago and I didn't sound like me at all. I just couldn't believe that it's over."

The "Copacabana" singer first revealed his cancer diagnosis through his website in December 2025. The condition was discovered after he visited his doctor in November for a hip examination. During that visit, doctors also scanned his lungs as a precaution, given that he had recently battled bronchitis. "They checked my lungs, and they found the dot, the spot, that thing that you don't want to, you don't want to ever have," Manilow recalled. "They said I had lung cancer and we have to get it out."

The surgical procedure has left his voice noticeably altered, presenting an unexpected hurdle as he prepares for a significant year ahead. Manilow turns 83 on June 17, 2026, and has an ambitious schedule lined up. His new album What a Time is set to release on June 5, followed by a stadium performance on June 25 and a Las Vegas residency launching in July.

Despite his concerns, Manilow expressed optimism about his overall health. "I can't wait to get back. I'm in great shape, I'm ready to go. I just hope my voice is there," he said on Good Morning America. "If I sound good, that would be just great. I really don't want to cry on stage, but I don't know whether I'll be able to hold that back this time."

The "Mandy" hitmaker acknowledged that his recovery has progressed more slowly than anticipated but emphasized that he remains in good condition. Earlier, Manilow had discussed his diagnosis and recovery journey in greater depth, reflecting on why he considers himself fortunate amid his health challenges.