Raul Malo of The Mavericks Shares Promising Health Update After Liver Surgery

Raul Malo, the frontman of The Mavericks, has shared a promising health update following his battle with cancer and recent liver surgery. Malo, 59, announced on Instagram that a tumor was successfully removed from his liver during a December 10 operation, marking a significant step in his recovery.

In a video posted Wednesday, Malo explained that the surgery and recovery process forced the band to withdraw from the Sandy Beaches Cruise, an annual event they typically headline. “They successfully removed a tumor from the liver, and we are going into the fourth week of recovery,” Malo said. “They said 4-to-6 weeks recovery, which would of course take me into the timing of the cruise.”

Despite the setback, Malo expressed optimism about his health. “I’m feeling strong,” he said, though he acknowledged lingering discomfort. “It’s really hard to hold a guitar up to my body, and I don’t know if I can sing because there’s one thing where you can recover, but you also have to be in performing shape.”

Malo first revealed his cancer diagnosis in June 2024, attributing the discovery to routine health checkups. “Part of the health journey is to get yourself checked out,” he said at the time. “Go to a doctor, take a physical, and start there.” His diagnosis led to further tests, which identified two cancerous spots.

The Mavericks had continued performing for much of 2024, but Malo’s health struggles forced the band to cancel several shows late in the year. Fans have rallied around the singer, offering support and encouragement as he navigates his recovery.

Malo encouraged fans to still enjoy the Sandy Beaches Cruise, which will feature other artists, and promised the band’s return to the event in 2026. “We love starting off the year with the cruise and some place warm and tropical,” he said. “Believe me, we could all use that.”

While The Mavericks’ absence from the cruise is disappointing for fans, Malo’s update signals hope for his future and the band’s eventual return to the stage.