Barry Manilow has always been a beloved and infectious performer, with songs that have captivated audiences worldwide. In the 1970s, he became a global sensation with hits like “Mandy” and “Copacabana (At the Copa).” Despite his success, critics were initially skeptical about his talent, but his music found its way into the hearts of millions.

For much of his life, Manilow kept a significant secret. At 73, he came out as gay, surprising many who had followed his career. Today, he lives a happy life with his husband, Garry, and his daughter. Although adored by fans worldwide, some have speculated whether Manilow has undergone plastic surgery. At 78 years old, the Brooklyn native has been candid about his appearance and doesn’t shy away from the truth.

Born Barry Pincus on June 17, 1943, in Brooklyn, New York, Manilow’s grandparents were Russian immigrants. On his father’s side, he has Irish heritage, a fact his family discouraged him from discussing. His father, Harold, was an Irish truck driver, and the family’s Jewish roots were emphasized, resulting in Barry adopting the name Manilow before his Bar Mitzvah.

Manilow’s early life was shaped by his grandparents and his mother, Edna, after his parents divorced when he was a baby. His stepfather, Willie Murphy, an Irish truck driver, was a positive influence in his life, introducing him to a love of music through his vast record collection. It was his mother and stepfather who, after saving for years, bought Barry his first piano, a gesture of their support and love.

Before diving into the world of music, Manilow attended the New York College of Music and later the Juilliard School, studying musical theater. Along the way, he also worked at CBS as a log clerk. In his early twenties, Manilow married his high school sweetheart, Susan Deixler, but he wasn’t ready for marriage. He was more focused on pursuing a career in music, which ultimately led to their separation after two years.

Manilow’s path to fame wasn’t straightforward. For years, he wrote commercial jingles, including one for Dr. Pepper and the famous “You Deserve a Break Today” for McDonald’s. Writing catchy melodies for commercials helped him hone his skills for pop music, where he would eventually make his mark. In 1973, he released his debut album, but it wasn’t until a year later that he became a star with the release of “Mandy,” a song discovered and revamped with the help of music producer Clive Davis.

“Mandy” became a No. 1 hit, and Manilow followed it up with other timeless songs like “I Write the Songs” and “Copacabana.” By 1978, just five years after his debut, Barry had five albums on the best-selling charts and ten No. 1 singles. He also earned Grammy and Tony awards and became a heartthrob to fans, affectionately known as “Fanilows.”

Despite his success, Manilow remained grounded, realizing that fame wasn’t about self-glorification. He embraced the importance of looking beyond himself and giving back, an attitude he maintained throughout his career.

Before his rise to fame, Manilow divorced Susan Deixler, acknowledging that he wasn’t ready for marriage. In 2017, at 73 years old, Barry came out as gay, revealing his long-term relationship with Garry Kief, whom he married in 2014. The couple met in 1978, and today, Garry is the president of Barry Manilow Productions and also serves as Barry’s manager.

Coming out wasn’t easy for Manilow. He feared that it might harm his career, particularly with his female fan base. However, the response was overwhelmingly positive, with fans celebrating his happiness. In addition to his relationship with Garry, Manilow has helped raise Garry’s biological daughter, Kristen.

Over the years, there has been much speculation regarding Barry Manilow’s appearance, with many suggesting he’s undergone plastic surgery. He confirmed having procedures to reduce jowls and admitted to trying Botox, though he wasn’t fond of the results. He’s also had several surgeries due to a hip problem, which contributed to changes in his facial appearance.

Despite the speculation, Manilow credits his youthful looks to luck and humorously admits that age is something he’d rather not dwell on. He continues to perform and inspire fans with his music and his personal journey.

Barry Manilow remains a music legend, and his courage to come out later in life has only added to his legacy. His story is one of resilience, talent, and authenticity.