Prefer Jewish News on Google
Barry Manilow reveals he’s gay and married to his manager
Copacabana star finally comes out on sexuality and 39-year relationship with Garry Kief in interview
Singer-songwriter Barry Manilow has revealed that he is gay and married to his manager.
The Copacabana star, who is releasing a new album this month, came out about his sexuality and his 39-year relationship with manager Garry Kief in an interview this week.
The pair tied the knot in a small ceremony at their Palm Springs home in 2014, but did not release the news for fear of disappointing fans.
However, few fans will be disappointed – or surprised – to hear that the intensely private 73-year old is gay, with most expressing messages of goodwill and happiness that he has found love.
Speaking to People Magazine, he said: “I thought I would be disappointing them [his fans] if they knew I was gay. So I never did anything.”
He added that those who had since learnt the news had been nothing but supportive, saying: “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.”
Manilow, whose 1987 autobiography makes only a fleeting reference to his ex-wife, is this month releasing his 29th album, called This Is My Town.
Keep community journalism free.
Jewish News is free for everyone. No paywall. No barriers. Just trusted journalism for anyone who wants to stay connected to Jewish life in Britain.
If you value that, please support us.
From as little as £5 a month, you can help keep our journalism free and accessible to all.
Every day, we report on the issues that matter to our community. We celebrate achievements, support charities, challenge antisemitism and ensure Jewish voices are heard more widely.
From as little as £5 a month, you can help us continue to:
- Report on the stories shaping Jewish life in the UK and beyond
- Bring our community together through shared stories, events and campaigns
- Celebrate the people, culture and moments that define our community
- Support organisations doing vital work across Jewish Britain
You can make a one-off donation or become a regular supporter. Every contribution helps keep our journalism free, independent and accessible to all.
If everyone who values Jewish News gave a small amount, it would make a real difference to our future.
