Michael Bolton opened up about undergoing emergency brain surgery in 2023. He shared an update on how he was doing amid his cancer battle in April 2025.
Michael Bolton Revealed Brain Tumor Surgery
The “To Love Somebody” singer first shared his health battle in a January 2024 Facebook post, revealing that he underwent surgery on his brain after being diagnosed with glioblastoma, “one of the most complex, deadly, and treatment-resistant cancers,” per the National Brain Tumor Society.
“I want to start by wishing everyone a very happy and healthy new year! I also want to share that 2023 ended up presenting me with some very unexpected challenges,” Michael wrote. “Just before the holidays, it was discovered that I had a brain tumor, which required immediate surgery. Thanks to my incredible medical team, the surgery was a success.”
“I am now recuperating at home and surrounded by the tremendous love and support of my family. For the next couple of months, I will be devoting my time and energy to my recovery which means I’ll have to take a temporary break from touring,” he added. “It is always the hardest thing for me to ever disappoint my fans or postpone a show, but have no doubt I am working hard to accelerate my recovery and get back to performing soon. I am beyond grateful for all the love and support you have so generously shown me through the years. Know that I’m keeping your positive messages in my heart, and I’ll give you more updates as soon as I can. Much love always, MB.”
In an April 2025 interview with People, Michael’s daughter Holly Bolton revealed her dad was “in recovery in the hospital room singing within minutes,” after the surgery.
“I remember one of the nurses [at the hospital] had no idea who he was, and she’s like, ‘Do you know he sings like this?’” she recalled.
Michael Bolton Underwent a 2nd Brain Surgery
Michael had a second brain surgery in January 2024 after contracting an infection. In October of that year, he finished radiation and chemotherapy. Now, the songwriter gets MRIs every two months, with his last scan in April 2025 being clear of a tumor.
“Everyone’s been so supportive. Michael knows he’s been given a second chance at life and he’s going to make the most of it and not take anything or anyone for granted again,” an insider told Closer in January 2025, one year after Michael’s second surgery.
What Is Glioblastoma?
Glioblastoma “is a type of cancer that starts as a growth of cells in the brain or spinal cord. It grows quickly and can invade and destroy healthy tissue. Glioblastoma forms from cells called astrocytes that support nerve cells,” according to Mayo Clinic.
Symptoms of the disease “may include headaches that keep getting worse, nausea and vomiting, blurred or double vision, trouble speaking, altered sense of touch, and seizures. There also may be trouble with balance, coordination, and moving parts of the face or body.”
There is no cure for glioblastoma, however, treatments can slow cancer growth or reduce symptoms.
Michael Bolton Spoke Out About His Brain Cancer Diagnosis
Michael opened up in his interview with People about his outlook on the situation and the support he has received from his family, including his three children.
“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,” he told the outlet. “It actually helps people to know. It reminds them that they’re not alone.”
The outlet noted that Michael “has purposely not been given a prognosis and is choosing to remain hopeful.”