Singer Raphael, at 82, recently caused a stir among fans. He had just returned to his busy schedule. However, he had to pull out of the Caja Rural de Zamora Foundation Awards on September 26.
Just minutes before his free concert at the Ifeza fairgrounds in Zamora was set to begin, it was called off. His management team explained the decision. They cited “medical reasons related to a flu process.” This quickly calmed fears that it might be connected to a more serious illness that sidelined him earlier.
Raphael’s performance was meant to be the grand finale, lasting about an hour and a half. Instead, organizers had to think fast. They swapped him out for a music session with an 80s theme.
The “Yo soy aquél” singer still has a packed schedule. His “Raphaelísimo” tour plans include shows in the United States. He will visit New York, Washington D.C., and Miami in April and May of 2026. His team has also confirmed that concerts planned for various Spanish cities in October are still on.
Raphael’s Past Health Battles
This isn’t the first time Raphael has faced health challenges. Back in December 2024, “El divo de Linares” suffered a major health setback. This happened while he was filming a Christmas special for the Spanish show ‘La Revuelta.’
His condition required immediate medical attention. After tests, his agency announced on Instagram he had cerebral lymphoma. Raphael then focused entirely on his recovery. He received outpatient chemotherapy, with his family’s full support. His wife, Natalia Figueroa, was constantly by his side.
According to the gossip magazine Diez Minutos, Raphael also followed a strict speech therapy program. He attended sessions at the RV ALFA clinic in Madrid to get his voice back. He was dedicated to his therapy, always accompanied by his wife, Natalia Figueroa.
His much-awaited return to the stage happened in June 2025. He kicked off his tour at the Roman Theater of Mérida. That night, the artist shared a powerful message with his fans. “I am still the same,” he declared to a standing ovation.
Beyond the cerebral lymphoma, the iconic artist has overcome other health issues. In 2003, he was diagnosed with liver cirrhosis. This was linked to excessive alcohol consumption in his past. He has also recovered from lung infections and battled COVID-19 during the pandemic. In 1985, he suffered from Hepatitis B. Yet, Raphael has shown incredible strength, like an oak tree. This new “flu process” was handled with care to prevent any bigger problems.