Michael Bolton has opened up about his devastating glioblastoma diagnosis in a candid new People cover interview, after revealing in January 2024 that he had undergone emergency surgery to remove a brain tumor discovered at the end of 2023.
In his January announcement, the 72-year-old “When a Man Loves a Woman” singer told fans that he would be stepping back from performing to focus on his recovery. By March 2024, he reassured them that he was “healing well” and “doing better every day,” though he noted he still needed more time to fully recover.
Bolton was originally scheduled to perform in London in July 2025, but informed fans back in February 2025 that the show would be canceled, explaining that his recovery was taking “a little longer” than expected. Keep reading to find out what he said about his health in his People cover interview…
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Michael Bolton Opens Up About Cancer Diagnosis In New Interview
In the candid People interview, the legendary singer-songwriter discussed how he's adjusting to life with glioblastoma – a rare and aggressive form of brain cancer – confessing that his short-term memory, speech, and mobility have all been affected by the treatment he is undergoing.
"You're reaching into your resources and your resolve in a way that you never would have thought," he said, adding: "Succumbing to the challenge is not an option. You're really quickly drawn into a duel. I guess that's the way you find out what you're made of."
Michael Bolton Hopes His Openness Will Help Other People Going Through The Same Thing
According to People, the "How Am I Supposed to Live Without You?" singer's most recent brain scan, which was conducted just last month, came back clear. However, glioblastoma has a high recurrence rate of around 90 percent, so his medical team will reportedly continue to closely monitor his condition.
Despite the difficult prognosis, Bolton reportedly remains optimistic, and says that knowing he is "not alone" has made a major difference in how he copes with the diagnosis. He hopes his openness will bring the same comfort to others going through the same thing.
"Whenever you find yourself in any kind of challenging position, just to know that you're not alone going through it is a big deal. It actually helps people to know. It reminds them that they're not alone," he said.
Michael Bolton Is Making The Most Of His Life
The Grammy-winning artist also shared how he's focusing on staying positive and present, and wants to make the most of his life. He confirmed that daily meditation and frequent golfing have become part of his new normal.
"I find comfort in general more easily. [The whole experience] gives me a heightened sense of appreciation," the "To Love Somebody" singer told the pub, adding: "It's unthinkable for it to be okay not to make the most of your life."
He added: "I think we develop capabilities and problem management, and we learn how to make the best out of a bad situation. You have to be a cheerleader for yourself."
