Kenny Rogers' Cancer Ordeal

Why the Gambler’s Calling It Quits at 78

AFTER battling a killer skin cancer, fading country superstar Kenny Rogers is calling it quits on his fabulous career.

The 78-year-old Gambler says age has caught up with him and he now wants to spend his final few days with his family — fifth wife, Wanda, 50, and their 12-year-old twin sons, Jordan and Justin.

“I can’t keep doing this,” he confesses. “I’m so tired.”

But a secret frightening medical diagnosis of skin cancer is the tragic reality behind his retirement, says an insider.

“He tried to put on a brave face about his skin cancer nightmare and even made public service announcements about National Skin Cancer Awareness Month,” says a source.

After his diagnosis, Kenny went public — showing bandages on his ravaged face — saying, “Had a bit of skin cancer removed. I recommend everyone go get checked.”