Barry Manilow feared 'disappointing' fans after coming out as gay
I always have been. I thought I would be disappointing them [fans] if they knew I was gay. So I never did anything
Music legend Barry Manilow has spoken about his sexuality for the first time and come out as gay at the age of 73.
Barry confirmed he is married to his manager Garry Kief, his partner of 37 years.
The 'private' pop icon explained that he feared his fans would be disappointed if they knew.
When speaking on his relationship, he said: "I’m so private. I always have been. I thought I would be disappointing them if they knew I was gay. So I never did anything".
The American singer-songwriter is known for his classic hits in the 70's and 80's including Mandy, Can't Smile Without You and Copacabana. He met Garry in 1978 and they got married privately in 2014.
Barry went on to say: "I have not read one negative response... I don't know, maybe they care about everybody, but for me, it is so moving, it is so deep that these strangers were so happy that I was happy".
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