Barry Manilow talks about sexuality for the first time

He's happy and that's the main thing

Singing legend Barry Manilow has spoken about his marriage and sexuality for the first time after fearing his fans would be disappointed if they knew he was gay.

The private star, 73, who is best known for hits including Mandy and Copacabana, kept his sexuality hidden for decades but said he has been moved by the "beautiful" reaction of his supporters since news of his marriage to manager Garry Kief broke in 2015.

The couple have been together for nearly 40 years but the singer has only now spoken about his husband.

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 couple tied the knot in a secret ceremony in Palm Springs, California, in April 2014, and in 2015 news of their marriage and the singer's sexuality made headlines, prompting an outpouring of support from his loyal band of fans.

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."