Barry Manilow, the renowned singer, spoke candidly about the challenges he faced in concealing his sexuality, fearing it would end his career. He revealed his orientation publicly in 2017 and expressed relief over the supportive response from fans. Manilow recalled a conversation from the 1980s where Clive Davis mentioned the negative impact on Elton John's career after coming out, though Davis doesn't remember this discussion. Manilow has been with his husband, Garry Kief, since 1978 and they married in 2014. He also shared his joy in becoming a grandfather through Kief's daughter's adoption.
Barry Manilow, the iconic singer, discussed the challenges of concealing his sexuality, describing it as a "burden" and expressing constant worry about being asked about it in interviews. He came out publicly in 2017 and has been married to his partner Garry Kief since 2014. Manilow recalled a conversation with Clive Davis, who allegedly warned him about the risks of coming out, citing Elton John's experience. Despite his fears, Manilow's fans showed overwhelming support when he revealed his sexuality. He also shared his joy of being a stepfather and a grandfather, embracing these roles in his personal life.
Barry Manilow opened up about the early days of his career performing at the Continental Baths, a gay bathhouse, alongside Bette Midler, and the 'burden' of hiding his sexuality for decades. Despite the unusual gig, he viewed it as just a job. Manilow, who came out publicly in 2017, reflected on the fear that revealing his sexuality would have ended his career, a sentiment echoed by record producer Clive Davis. He also discussed the changing attitudes towards being gay in the entertainment industry, noting that it would have been detrimental to his career had he come out in the 1970s.
Barry Manilow, in a recent interview with The Hollywood Reporter, discussed the challenges he faced hiding his sexuality to protect his career, fearing it would end if he came out. He never felt able to address his LGBTQ identity publicly until 2017, despite never being directly asked about it in interviews. Manilow also mentioned a past conversation with Clive Davis about the risks of coming out, which Davis doesn't recall. Manilow, who has been with his husband Garry Kief since 1978, expressed gratitude for the positive reaction to his coming out from fans and the public.
At 80 years old, Barry Manilow continues to captivate audiences with his enduring talent and showmanship. Having surpassed Elvis' performance record in Las Vegas, sold out shows at Radio City Music Hall, and planned his "last, last U.K. concerts," Manilow remains a force in the music industry. His Broadway musical, "Harmony," and his cover of Mariah Carey's "All I Want for Christmas" showcase his versatility and appeal. Despite his age, Manilow's passion for music and performance keeps him going strong, with a spirit that defies time.
