Barry Manilow Shares Humorous Update on Recovery Journey Following Recent Surgery

Music legend Barry Manilow opens up about his recovery from a recent surgery, jokingly describing the process as agony due to his restless and impatient nature.

By: AXL Media

Published: Mar 4, 2026, 4:37 AM EST

Source: People

The "Agony" of Sitting Still

During a recent interaction, the 82-year-old entertainer described his recovery as "agony," quickly clarifying that his discomfort stems from a complete lack of patience. Known for his tireless work ethic and frequent performance schedule, Manilow noted that being forced to rest is contrary to his nature. He joked that the hardest part of the post-operative experience is the requirement to remain sedentary, a task he finds more taxing than the surgical intervention itself. [Further details regarding the specific nature of the surgery were not disclosed].

Maintaining a Busy Schedule in his Eighties

The legendary singer-songwriter has shown no signs of slowing down in recent years, which explains his current frustration with downtime. Manilow has been actively involved in his long-running residency in Las Vegas and has recently been promoting new creative projects. For a professional who is used to meticulous planning and constant movement, the "waiting game" of physical rehabilitation represents a rare moment of forced reflection that he seems eager to conclude as quickly as possible.

The Support System and Fan Response

Throughout this recovery period, Manilow has been buoyed by a wave of support from his dedicated fanbase, affectionately known as "Fanilows." The singer expressed gratitude for the well-wishes he has received, noting that the connection with his audience remains a primary motivator for his return to the stage. His transparency about the frustrations of recovery has resonated with many fans who admire his honesty about the less glamorous aspects of maintaining a career in his ninth decade.