Barry Manilow, known for his timeless hits like “Mandy” and “Copacabana,” has enjoyed a legendary career in the music industry. Rising to fame in the 1970s, he captivated audiences worldwide. What many fans didn’t know for a long time was that, behind the scenes, Manilow had a relationship that spanned decades, far from the public eye.

Manilow was first married to his high school sweetheart, Susan Deixler, in the mid-1960s. The marriage was short-lived, and they separated after only two years. Manilow later admitted that, although he loved Deixler, he wasn’t ready for the commitment and was too focused on building his music career at the time.

After reaching stardom with “Mandy” in 1974, Manilow met Garry Kief, a TV executive who would become both his manager and life partner. The two formed a strong bond, both personally and professionally. However, in an era when being openly gay could lead to career-damaging headlines, Manilow chose to keep his relationship with Kief private.

Manilow revealed that it wasn’t due to internal conflict over his s-xuality, but rather a desire to protect his career and not upset his fans. “I was always private about my personal life, but I wasn’t hiding because I was ashamed,” Manilow said in later interviews. “I wanted to give my fans the music they loved and protect the relationship that meant the world to me.”

In 2014, at the age of 71, Barry Manilow and Garry Kief quietly married in a private ceremony at their home in Palm Springs, surrounded by close family and friends. Though they had been together for many years by that point, news of their marriage did not become public until 2015. When fans learned of the union, Manilow was touched by the overwhelmingly positive support.

Despite his initial concerns about fan reactions, Manilow expressed relief that people accepted and embraced his relationship. “I could not be prouder of being a gay man and having a beautiful life with my partner for over 40 years,” he said.

 

Today, Barry Manilow continues to make music, with Garry Kief still by his side as both his manager and husband. Their relationship, built on love and mutual respect, has stood the test of time. They have raised Kief’s biological daughter, Kirsten, together, and continue to enjoy a life of happiness and support from friends, family, and fans.

In an era where being true to oneself is celebrated, Manilow’s story serves as a reminder that love, in all its forms, is worth cherishing.

 

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