Barry Manilow is a living legend. He has been in the spotlight for 50 years, continuously turning out hit songs and touring for devoted fans all over the world. But, Manilow has managed to keep a secret while in the limelight.
In an exclusive interview with People, Barry Manilow has come out as gay at the age of 73.
"I'm so private. I always have been," the singer said.
Now, Manilow is opening up about his private struggles with his sexuality.
His first love (besides music) was Susan Deixler. The two met in high school and after graduating they got married. The marriage only lasted one year, as Manilow reveals he was "not ready" for this level of commitment and that he was still struggling with his sexuality.
At this point, Manilow devoted his time to music. His career took off in 1974, with his songs "Mandy" and "Copacabana (At The Copa)."
In 1978, he met TV executive Garry Kief and then everything changed.
“I knew that this was it. I was one of the lucky ones. I was pretty lonely before that. He’s the smartest person I’ve ever met in my life — and a great guy, too," says Manilow.
Kief eventually became not only his lover, but also his manager. The two have been together now for 39 years. They got married in April 2014 in a small, private ceremony in California.
RELATED: Surprise! Barry Manilow is married to longtime partner Garry Kief
News of their marriage spread in 2015 and Manilow was unable to handle the pressure to come out. But, luckily, he has seen nothing but support.
“I thought I would be disappointing them [fans] if they knew I was gay. So I never did anything. When they found out that Garry and I were together, they were so happy. The reaction was so beautiful — strangers commenting, ‘Great for you!’ I’m just so grateful for it.”
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