On January 5, 2024, in an interview with The Hollywood Reporter (via PEOPLE), music legend Barry Manilow revealed the biggest secret of his life — one he had kept hidden for decades. For years, he feared that if he came out, he might lose everything: his career, his audience, and the image he had built.
The fear he carried for decades
It wasn’t just personal — his entire career was on the line
Barry Manilow, the iconic voice behind “Mandy” and “Can’t Smile Without You,” has been in the spotlight since the 1970s. Yet behind the glamour, he lived with the constant pressure of hiding his true self. For years, he believed that revealing he was gay could cause his loyal fan base — especially the older, traditional audience — to turn away.
He recalled moments when he wanted to tell the truth, but each time he thought of the thousands of letters from fans saying his music helped them through their darkest days, he hesitated. The fear of letting them down was overwhelming.
The moment he let go of the burden
A few words that lifted a lifetime of weight
In the interview, Barry openly admitted: “I was so afraid — afraid of disappointing the people who loved me. But then I realized… they love me for my music and my heart, not for whether I hide or reveal something.”
The truth — that he had been in a committed relationship for over 40 years with his longtime manager, Garry Kief — surprised many. But instead of losing their affection, fans embraced him even more deeply.
Love and music — timeless and unshakable
Beyond prejudice, only melodies and memories remain
For countless older fans, Barry Manilow is more than a singer. He is the soundtrack of their youth, the voice on the radio each night, the background music to their first loves. Now, with his real story told, his songs carry even more meaning — because they come from a man who found the courage to live authentically.