Branson performer diagnosed with cancer

Branson comedian and musician Joey Riley has been diagnosed with stage 4 colon cancer.

The 43-year-old soon will begin chemotherapy, according to a news release.

Riley started performing in Texas at an early age and performed at the Mickey Gilley Theatre in Branson for more than 20 years until 2012, when he began performing as part of Clay Cooper’s Country Music Express and in The Joey Riley Show at Music City Centre on the Highway 76 strip.

Riley underwent surgery to remove a tumor, but the process was unsuccessful. Instead, he will undergo chemotherapy and radiation treatments meant to shrink the tumor. He has put his career on hold as he is treated, though he plans to return to Clay Cooper's show in the fall, according to the release.

A benefit show has been scheduled April 20 at Clay Cooper Theatre to help Riley and his wife, Kelli, cover the cost of medical expenses. Riley reportedly doesn't have health insurance.

“The music industry has been real good to me throughout the years. I’ve been blessed. But I’m not ready to give up yet," said Riley, a steel guitarist, fiddle player and comedian, in the release.[[In-content Ad]]