“Just to know that you’re not alone…” — Michael Bolton opens up about his cancer diagnosis

Michael Bolton - Source: Wikimedia Commons
Michael Bolton (Image via Wikimedia Commons)

Michael Bolton, 72, is one of the most beloved soft rock singers from the late 1980s and 1990s. Popular for his hit ballads and blissful voice, his transition to singing pop-rock and contemporary songs marked a significant breakthrough in his career, spanning decades.

In his latest interaction with People Magazine, he reflected on his brain cancer diagnosis, the obstacles he has encountered, and finding his family beside him in this stormy time.

Michael Bolton is grateful for his family and their unconditional support in his life's most difficult phases. While speaking in this week’s cover story for the outlet, the artist acknowledged his loved ones and shared,

"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."
Michael Bolton (Image via Wikimedia Commons)
Michael Bolton (Image via Wikimedia Commons)

He further continued, saying,

"It actually helps people to know. It reminds them that they’re not alone."

Everything we know about Michael Bolton's glioblastoma (brain cancer) diagnosis

In December 2023, Bolton was diagnosed with glioblastoma. He encountered this experience after undergoing an emergency surgery to remove a brain tumor.

Last year in January, Michael confirmed the news of this disease. Also, he spoke about resting and stopping going on tours after undergoing brain surgery.

According to a People Magazine report, Michael Bolton had to go through another brain surgery in January 2024. This time, it was conducted for an infection.

His latest scan, tested in April, showed clear results.

While chatting with the outlet, the renowned musician continued, chiming in,

"You’re reaching into your resources and your resolve in a way that you never would have thought. 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."

Reflecting on his journey, overcoming challenges and standing strong against them, he shared,

"I find comfort in general more easily. [The whole experience] gives me a heightened sense of appreciation. It’s unthinkable for it to be okay not to make the most of your life. 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.”
Michael Bolton (Image via Wikimedia Commons)
Michael Bolton (Image via Wikimedia Commons)

Michael Bolton also opened up about his thoughts on his children and how he can be there and provide for them.

"How do I give things that they can take forward? Life lessons, love, any kind of validation that I can give [them] — I want to be on the right side of that so they feel great about who they are. It’s a reality of mortality. Suddenly a new light has gone on that raises questions, including 'Am I doing the best that I can do with my time?'"

At the end of all that has happened, he desires to continue. Recalling different phases, he expressed,

"I want to keep going. I feel there’s still a lot to do on the fight side."

In fact, Michael suggested an inspirational song title, "Ain’t Going Down Without A Fight."

Edited by Anshika Jain