Barry Manilow has been a household name for decades, captivating audiences worldwide with his infectious voice and timeless hits. From Mandy to Copacabana (At the Copa), his songs have earned a special place in the hearts of millions. Yet, despite his fame, there was one aspect of his life he kept hidden for years—a secret that would eventually change everything. At the age of 73, Barry Manilow came out as gay, a revelation that surprised many but also allowed him to live his life more authentically. Today, at 78, Manilow is happier than ever, sharing his life with his husband, Garry, and his daughter. But while his career has often made headlines, it’s his personal journey of love and acceptance that has captivated many.
Early Life and Struggles with Identity
Barry Manilow was born on June 17, 1943, in Brooklyn, New York. Raised by his mother, Edna, and his grandparents, Barry’s early life was anything but typical. His parents divorced when he was just a baby, and it was his stepfather, Irish truck driver Willie Murphy, who would ultimately become one of his greatest influences in music. Willie’s extensive record collection sparked Barry’s passion for music, and with the help of his mother and stepfather, Barry received a piano as a child—a gift that would change the trajectory of his life.
Growing up in a family that struggled with identity, Barry learned early on to keep certain details hidden. His father, Harold, was an Irish immigrant, but Barry’s mother kept that fact under wraps, fearing it would cause shame. When Barry was born, his name was legally changed to Pincus after his mother dug deep into his father’s family tree and found one Jewish relative. This complicated relationship with identity would continue to shape Barry’s life, particularly when it came to his own sexual identity.
Early Career and the Rise to Fame
Barry’s music career began in New York, where he attended the City College of New York and later the prestigious Juilliard School. Initially, he worked as a log clerk at CBS, but his big break came when he started writing jingles for commercials. His catchy jingles, including the famous You Deserve a Break Today for McDonald’s, not only paid the bills but also honed his skills in creating memorable melodies—a talent that would later define his pop music career.
His breakthrough came in the 1970s with songs like Mandy and Copacabana, both of which solidified his status as an international superstar. While critics were skeptical of his early work, Barry’s ability to craft heartfelt, singable songs made him a household name. The charm of his voice and his undeniable stage presence helped propel him to global fame.
Personal Life and Coming Out
Despite his public persona, Barry kept his personal life private for much of his career. He married his high school sweetheart, Susan Deixler, in 1964, but their union was short-lived. According to Barry, they were too young to settle down, and his growing career in music made it difficult to maintain a relationship. Though they divorced shortly after, Barry would go on to meet his true love years later.
In 2014, after keeping his sexuality private for most of his life, Barry came out as gay at the age of 73. It was a life-altering moment for the singer, who admitted that keeping his sexual orientation a secret had been emotionally challenging. His decision to come out was met with a supportive response from fans and the media, and he was finally able to embrace his true self.
Garry: The Man Barry Has Been With for Almost 40 Years
For nearly four decades, Barry has been in a committed relationship with Garry, the man who has stood by him through thick and thin. Their relationship has been a source of strength for Barry, especially as he navigated the complexities of fame, identity, and personal growth. Though Garry has stayed out of the public eye for the most part, their love has been a constant presence in Barry’s life.
In interviews, Barry has expressed how happy and content he is with Garry, noting that their relationship has been one of the most fulfilling aspects of his life. The couple shares a deep bond, and Garry has been a pillar of support for Barry, especially in his later years as he has become more open about his personal life.
The Truth About Barry Manilow’s Appearance
As Barry ages, fans often speculate about his appearance, wondering whether he has undergone plastic surgery to maintain his youthful look. At 78, Barry has embraced his age and isn’t shy about addressing the rumors. He has spoken openly about how he takes care of himself, but has also made it clear that he has not gone under the knife to alter his appearance. For Barry, it’s more important to focus on living his best life with those he loves, rather than stressing about his physical appearance.
Legacy and Happiness Today
Looking back on his illustrious career, Barry Manilow is a testament to perseverance, creativity, and authenticity. Despite the struggles of his early life and the challenges he faced in keeping his sexual identity a secret, Barry has come into his own. His decision to come out has allowed him to live a fuller, happier life alongside Garry, and they continue to enjoy their time together, with Barry maintaining his passion for music and performance.
As for his music, Barry continues to entertain fans around the world, bringing his timeless hits to new generations. He may have been a heartthrob for many, but it’s his openness, authenticity, and long-lasting love with Garry that truly define his legacy today.
Barry Manilow has come a long way from the boy who was raised in Brooklyn. Today, he is not only a legendary singer but also a man who is living his truth, surrounded by love, happiness, and fulfillment.
Sophia Reynolds is a dedicated journalist and a key contributor to Storyoftheday24.com. With a passion for uncovering compelling stories, Sophia Reynolds delivers insightful, well-researched news across various categories. Known for breaking down complex topics into engaging and accessible content, Sophia Reynolds has built a reputation for accuracy and reliability. With years of experience in the media industry, Sophia Reynolds remains committed to providing readers with timely and trustworthy news, making them a respected voice in modern journalism.
