Reggaeton superstar Don Omar has revealed he is battling cancer. The 46-year-old artist shared the news on Instagram, posting a photo of himself wearing a bracelet from Orlando Health, a healthcare organization in Florida. “Today yes, but tomorrow I won’t have cancer,” he wrote in Spanish, expressing optimism about his condition. He added, “Good intentions are well received. See you soon.”
The announcement has prompted an outpouring of support from fans and fellow musicians. Jerry Rivera commented, “We’re moving forward, champion. You know the Word, and you’ve known God for a while. You’ve always been a winner, and that’s not going to change. You are healthy in the name of the lord!” Ozuna also sent his well-wishes, writing, “Lots of strength to you. God is with you.” Jowell of Jowell & Randy added, “Brother, we are with you.”
Born William Omar Landrón Rivera in Puerto Rico, Don Omar is a pivotal figure in the reggaeton genre. He first gained widespread recognition with his 2003 debut album, “The Last Don,” which was certified double-platinum in the U.S. and featured the hit single “Dile.” His follow-up album, “King of Kings,” released in 2006, was certified quadruple-platinum and included the chart-topping track “Angelito.”
In 2015, Don Omar paid homage to his reggaeton roots with “The Last Don II,” a sequel to his debut album that featured collaborations with Daddy Yankee, Tego Calderón, and Wisin & Yandel. This year, he has been performing on his Back to Reggaeton Tour, which began in March. The second leg of the tour is scheduled to start on August 7 in Oakland, California.
Despite his diagnosis, Don Omar remains hopeful and determined. “Today I have it, but tomorrow I won’t have cancer,” he reiterated in his Instagram post, accompanied by a photo of himself making a fist while wearing a hospital wristband. He also used the hashtag #FuckCancer to underscore his fighting spirit.
The news has resonated deeply within the Latin music community. Olga Tañón wrote, “My sweet kid, you are a warrior of thousands of battles and you will beat this one too.” Farruko added, “We overcome these obstacles because we overcome them in the name of Jesus. God bless you.” Ryan Castro also sent his blessings, writing, “God bless you.”
The announcement comes just days after Don Omar added new dates to his U.S. Back to Reggaeton tour, with stops in Oakland, Seattle, Los Angeles, Newark, and Boston through August and September. Over the weekend, he shared videos of dancers auditioning to be part of the tour, expressing gratitude for their enthusiasm. “The most special thing about today’s auditions is seeing that there are people who want to dream with me. Thank you to each and every one of you who gave it your all on the track! This second leg of the tour is coming with everything,” he wrote.
Don Omar’s influence on reggaeton is undeniable. Often referred to as “El Rey” of reggaeton, he has been a trailblazer in the genre, alongside artists like Daddy Yankee, Tego Calderón, and Ivy Queen. His music has not only topped charts but also defined an era. His debut album, “The Last Don,” featured hits like “Dale Don Dale” and “Pobre Diabla,” while his sophomore album, “King of Kings,” reached No. 7 on the Billboard 200.
In addition to his music career, Don Omar has appeared in the “Fast & Furious” franchise, portraying street racer Rico Santos. His contributions to both music and film have solidified his status as a cultural icon.
As Don Omar prepares to undergo treatment, the support from his peers and fans continues to pour in. Franco “El Gorila” commented, “God is with you as always and I’m sending my prayers of good wishes and faith that you will heal. You are a warrior.” Olga Tañón added, “My beautiful boy, you are a warrior of a thousand battles and you win against this as well.”
Other artists like DJ Nelson, Alcover, and Willy William have also expressed their support. While it remains unclear if his cancer treatment will affect the next leg of his tour, Don Omar’s determination and the love from his community suggest that he will face this challenge with the same strength and resilience that have defined his career.
