Who is Susan Deixler?

Susan Deixler, a former nurse, was previously married to the well-known American singer-songwriter Barry Manilow. Manilow is widely recognized as one of the most iconic singers in the country’s past.

For many years, he has achieved numerous successful songs, particularly in the 1970s and 80s. Despite being adored by millions, the singer has kept his personal life private for a considerable amount of time.

Barry Manilow & Susan Deixler’s Love Story

Barry Manilow’s music career has been an exceptional journey, made unique by his rare legacy. Growing up in Brooklyn, he unearthed his passion for music and has since dedicated his life to honing his craft and improving as an artist.

There was a time when a certain person held a special place in the famous singer’s thoughts. This person was his high school sweetheart, Susan Deixler, from his hometown of Brooklyn.

Manilow was well-liked during his high school years, earning the title of best musician in his yearbook. He and Susan got married in 1964 in a ceremony led by a Rabbi, honoring Susan’s Jewish background.

Manilow’s deep infatuation with Susan Deixler had consumed him, causing him to disregard his friends’ warnings about his misguided choice. He was completely fixated on her and even put his passion for music on the back burner.

Despite his friends’ doubts, he was convinced that their relationship would defy expectations. However, he ended his relationship with Susan and pursued a life dedicated to his passion for music.

After being left alone and frustrated at home while her husband chased his dream, Susan Deixler eventually reached her breaking point and chose to end their marriage. She filed for an annulment and the couple went their separate ways.

After the annulment, Susan Deixler chose to pursue a career in holistic healing and lead a peaceful and secluded lifestyle. Although she had some issues with her ex-husband in the past, she ultimately decided to forgive him.

Susan and Barry were married briefly and did not have any children together. However, Susan later became a mother to two children: a daughter named Pauline and a son named Danny. While Barry did not have any biological children, he gained a stepdaughter from his second marriage.

Who is Barry Manilow married to?

While Susan did not remarry, Barry Manilow married his manager and longtime partner, Garry Kief, in 2014. They had been in a relationship since 1978 and they finally got married after the legalization of same-sex marriage in the US.

Barry played a significant role in raising Kirsten, Garry’s daughter from a previous marriage, as his stepdaughter. Barry revealed to People in October 2023 that Kirsten had welcomed a little girl into their family, making him a proud grandfather.

“I’m watching this little girl—she’s 2½—grow up and learn. This is a brand-new experience for me, and I really am enjoying it.”

In his memoir from 1987, Barry described Susan as the “perfect wife”, but their relationship ended after only one year despite being childhood sweethearts. He expressed that his desire for his former wife to reciprocate his love was even greater than his desire for fame.

While talking about their separation, Susan said,

“What happened between us, our relationship, is ancient history and I don’t want to dig back into ancient history. It was 50 years ago. You have to remember that I’m not a celebrity. I have children, a life…all that was a long time ago.”

She further stated that she is happy that her ex-husband found love again with Garry Kief.

“I’m a private person but I’m happy for him. I really am.”

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