Barry Manilow is one of the most legendary figures in the history of music, known for his timeless hits and his ability to connect with fans across generations. However, long before his meteoric rise to fame, there was a chapter in his life that many fans may not know about—a brief but meaningful marriage to his high school sweetheart, Susan Deixler.
Susan Deixler, while not a household name, played a pivotal role in Barry Manilow’s early years. Their relationship offers a unique glimpse into the life of a young man on the brink of stardom and a young woman whose story has largely been overshadowed by her connection to a music icon. In this article, we explore Susan Deixler’s life, her short-lived marriage to Barry Manilow, and the life she chose after their separation.
Profile Bio
| Quick Bio | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Susan Deixler |
| Date of Birth | 1940s (exact year not publicly confirmed) |
| Place of Birth | United States |
| Profession | Holistic Healer |
| Famous For | Being Barry Manilow’s first wife |
| Marriage Year | 1964 |
| Annulment Year | 1965 |
| Children | Pauline and Danny |
| Relationship Status | Single (after annulment) |
| Current Focus | Holistic healing and private life |
| Residence | Lives privately, location undisclosed |
| Net Worth | Estimated between $1 million and $5 million |
| Connection to Barry | Played a pivotal role in Barry Manilow’s early life and personal growth |
Susan Deixler: A Private Beginning
Susan Deixler was born and raised in the United States, living a life far removed from the bright lights of the entertainment industry. Her early years were private and unremarkable in terms of public attention. She was described by those who knew her as kind, bright, and full of life.
Susan met Barry Manilow while they were both students at Eastern District High School in Brooklyn, New York. At the time, Barry was already gaining attention for his musical talent, even earning the title of “Best Musician” in his high school yearbook. Susan, on the other hand, was a grounded and supportive individual who seemed to complement Barry’s ambitious personality.
Their love story began as a typical high school romance but quickly grew into something more. Despite their young age, Barry and Susan fell deeply in love, eventually deciding to marry.
The Marriage of Susan Deixler and Barry Manilow
In 1964, at just 19 years old, Susan Deixler married 21-year-old Barry Manilow in a traditional Jewish ceremony officiated by a Rabbi. The young couple was full of hope and optimism about their future together. At the time, Barry was still far from the global fame he would later achieve.
Manilow was head over heels in love with Susan. In interviews, he later recalled that he was so infatuated with her that he ignored the advice of friends who warned him that he might not be ready for marriage. His friends believed that his passion for music would ultimately take precedence over his marriage, and unfortunately, they were right.
For a brief period, Barry prioritized his relationship over his music, but this balance was short-lived. As his ambitions in the music industry began to intensify, it became clear that his marriage to Susan was not his primary focus.
The Struggles of Young Love
Susan Deixler and Barry Manilow’s marriage quickly faced challenges. While Susan was ready to settle into the life of a supportive wife, Barry’s heart was elsewhere—dedicated to his music and the dream of building a career in the industry.
Barry later admitted in interviews that he wasn’t emotionally prepared for marriage at the time. “I wasn’t ready to take care of anybody,” he once said, reflecting on his brief union with Susan. “I was too young and too focused on my music.”
As Barry threw himself deeper into his work, Susan found herself left behind, waiting for a husband who was increasingly absent. The strain of the situation became too much for Susan, and their relationship began to unravel.
The Annulment of Their Marriage
After just one year of marriage, Susan Deixler and Barry Manilow’s relationship came to an end. Susan, feeling neglected and unfulfilled in the marriage, made the difficult decision to file for an annulment in 1965.
The annulment marked the end of a youthful romance that had begun with so much promise. However, both Susan and Barry moved forward with grace and without public animosity. In later years, Barry spoke fondly of Susan, describing her as “adorable” and acknowledging that their marriage ended not because of a lack of love, but because of his inability to balance his dreams and personal life.
Life After Barry Manilow
Following her annulment from Barry, Susan Deixler chose to step away from the spotlight. While her connection to Barry could have provided her with opportunities for fame, Susan opted for a private and independent life instead.
She did not remarry, but she went on to have two children, Pauline and Danny. Susan also found her calling in the field of holistic healing, building a career that allowed her to help others while maintaining a low profile. Her work in alternative therapies became a cornerstone of her life, giving her purpose and fulfillment.
Despite the challenges of her brief marriage, Susan eventually forgave Barry and expressed no lingering resentment toward him. Her focus remained on her family, her career, and her own happiness.
Barry Manilow’s Reflections on Susan Deixler
While Susan built a private and fulfilling life, Barry Manilow’s career skyrocketed to global fame. He became one of the most iconic musicians of the 1970s and 1980s, with hits like “Mandy,” “Copacabana,” and “Can’t Smile Without You.”
Despite his success, Barry never forgot his first wife. In interviews, he spoke candidly about how their marriage failed because of his own immaturity and single-minded focus on music. Barry’s reflections on Susan often carried a tone of respect and regret, as he acknowledged that she had been an important part of his early life.
In later years, Barry found happiness with his longtime partner and manager, Garry Kief. The couple married in 2014 after decades of keeping their relationship private. Barry’s decision to come out as gay was met with overwhelming support from his fans, who admired his honesty and courage.
Susan Deixler’s Quiet Legacy
Today, Susan Deixler continues to live a quiet and private life. She has avoided the public eye, focusing instead on her career in holistic healing and her role as a mother and grandmother. While she may always be remembered as Barry Manilow’s first wife, Susan’s story is much more than a footnote in someone else’s legacy.
Her decision to step away from fame and live life on her own terms is a testament to her independence and resilience. Susan’s legacy is one of quiet strength, grace, and the ability to move forward after life’s challenges.
Conclusion: A Chapter in Barry Manilow’s Journey
While Barry Manilow went on to become one of the most celebrated artists of his generation, Susan Deixler played a formative role in his early life. Their brief marriage was a turning point for both of them—Barry realized he wasn’t ready for the responsibilities of marriage, and Susan discovered her own path outside of his shadow.
Though their time together was short-lived, Susan Deixler’s story is a reminder of the complexities of young love and the resilience it takes to build a life after heartbreak. She chose privacy over fame, independence over notoriety, and, in doing so, created a legacy that is both inspiring and deeply human.
For fans of Barry Manilow, Susan Deixler represents a poignant chapter in the artist’s journey. For Susan, her life stands as a quiet but powerful example of moving forward, embracing new opportunities, and living with dignity and grace.
FAQs
Who is Susan Deixler?
Susan Deixler is Barry Manilow’s first wife. She married the music legend in 1964 when they were both very young. Their marriage lasted just one year before it was annulled, as Barry’s focus on his music career took precedence over their relationship.
Why did Susan Deixler and Barry Manilow separate?
The couple separated because Barry Manilow was too focused on building his music career and admitted he wasn’t ready for marriage. Susan filed for an annulment after feeling neglected and unfulfilled in their marriage.
What did Susan Deixler do after her marriage to Barry Manilow?
After their annulment, Susan Deixler chose to live a private life away from the public eye. She pursued a career in holistic healing, became a mother to two children, and focused on her personal happiness and independence.
Did Susan Deixler remarry after her annulment with Barry Manilow?
No, Susan Deixler did not remarry after her annulment. However, she raised two children, Pauline and Danny, and dedicated her life to her family and career in holistic healing.
How does Barry Manilow describe Susan Deixler today?
Barry Manilow has spoken fondly of Susan, describing her as “adorable” and admitting that their marriage failed because he wasn’t emotionally ready at the time. He reflects on their relationship with respect and appreciation for her role in his early life.
