In the world of entertainment, fans often overlook the people who shaped stars before fame. Susan Deixler is one such figure — a pivotal part of Barry Manilow’s early life. Before the spotlight, she held Barry’s heart in a brief but emotionally significant relationship that quietly shaped their paths. This article uncovers Susan’s untold story, her life choices, and how she stayed true to herself amid the shadows of fame.
QUICK BIO
| Detail | Information |
| Full Name | Susan Deixler |
| Date of Birth | August 1944 |
| Place of Birth | Brooklyn, New York, USA |
| Education | Eastern District High School |
| Known For | First wife of Barry Manilow, Holistic Healer |
| Marriage | Barry Manilow (1964 – 1965) |
| Career | Holistic healing, Manager at a nursing home |
| Philosophy | Focus on holistic health, aging with dignity |
| Volunteer Work | Community programs for the elderly, WMSS |
| Residence | California, USA |
| Notable Traits | Resilience, dedication to elder care, and holistic healing |
The Early Years: Young Love in Brooklyn
Susan Deixler met Barry Manilow (born Barry Alan Pincus) in high school in Brooklyn, New York. They were both teenagers attending Eastern District High School, and from all accounts, their bond was deep and genuine. Their youthful romance blossomed during a simpler time, long before Barry would become a global sensation. According to Susan, Barry was charismatic, talented, and very focused on his musical aspirations. But beyond the ambition, he was also deeply in love. The two would spend hours together, often talking about dreams, life, and love.
Their relationship progressed quickly. Susan was the quintessential girl next door—warm, supportive, and grounded—while Barry had the spark of someone destined for something more. Despite their differences, they shared something authentic. It wasn’t long before the two were married in 1964, just a year after high school graduation. At that point, neither could have predicted the twists their lives would soon take.
The Short-Lived Marriage: A Turning Point
Their marriage lasted less than a year, ending in an annulment in 1965. The reasons behind the breakup have long been speculated, but Susan has gone on record stating that Barry left to pursue his career in music, a path that would soon catapult him into stardom. Barry himself has spoken candidly about the marriage in later interviews, describing Susan as “sweet” and saying he “wasn’t ready” for married life. However, what remained unspoken for decades was Barry’s struggle with his own identity and sexuality, which would come to light many years later.
Susan never sought attention or media validation from her brief marriage to Barry. Instead, she took the high road and moved forward with her life, choosing to build something stable and real, away from cameras and red carpets. Her decision to remain private only adds to the aura of mystery that surrounds her, but those who know her say she was always more interested in real life than fame.
Barry Manilow’s Revelation: A Moment of Reflection
In 2017, Barry Manilow publicly came out as gay, revealing that he had been in a relationship with his manager, Garry Kief, for over 30 years. This revelation brought renewed attention to his past, particularly his early marriage to Susan Deixler. Many fans were curious about how Susan might have reacted or whether she had known anything about Barry’s internal struggles at the time.
Surprisingly, Susan responded with grace and kindness. In interviews, she expressed that she was not bitter about the past and held no resentment. She stated that she had no regrets about their time together and that she always hoped Barry would find happiness. Her composed demeanor and respectful silence over the years speak volumes about her character and emotional maturity.
Life After Barry: A Quiet Strength
After the annulment, Susan Deixler pursued a life far removed from show business. She became a mother, a professional, and an active member of her community. According to various sources, she worked as a holistic practitioner and focused on raising her children with love and integrity. She built a fulfilling life—one based not on headlines but on values and personal growth.
While Barry went on to tour the world, perform to sold-out arenas, and create hit after hit, Susan lived quietly and contentedly. She remarried, had two children, and stayed mostly out of the public eye. Those who know her describe her as resilient, compassionate, and incredibly grounded—a woman who has embraced her past but is not defined by it.
The Media’s Portrayal: Selective Spotlight
The media has a way of glorifying the famous and often overlooking the equally important but lesser-known figures. Susan Deixler has been one such figure. While Barry Manilow’s career has been documented in magazines, biographies, and documentaries, Susan’s name is often reduced to a footnote—a minor chapter in the superstar’s journey.
This portrayal does a disservice not only to Susan but to countless others who share their lives with future celebrities and later fade into obscurity. Her story is not one of missed opportunity or regret but of quiet dignity and independence. She chose not to ride on Barry’s coattails or exploit their past, which makes her narrative even more compelling and worth telling.
Public Curiosity vs. Personal Privacy
Public curiosity about Susan Deixler surged after Barry’s coming out and subsequent interviews where he referenced their marriage. Fans wanted to know more—what was she like? Did she suspect anything? Was she hurt? Yet, Susan consistently maintained a respectful silence, only occasionally breaking it to offer kind words and well wishes for Barry.
Her ability to separate her private life from public curiosity is rare, especially in a world where oversharing is normalized. She didn’t write a tell-all book or go on television. Instead, she preserved her dignity, respecting both herself and Barry. Her silence wasn’t out of fear or shame—it was out of choice and grace.
A Symbol of Grace and Integrity
In a culture obsessed with fame and scandal, Susan Deixler stands out as a symbol of grace and integrity. Her story reminds us that not everyone desires the limelight. Some people live profound, meaningful lives outside the public gaze. Her marriage to Barry Manilow may have been short-lived, but the strength with which she handled its aftermath is a testament to her character.
There’s something refreshing about a woman who doesn’t capitalize on her proximity to fame. Susan Deixler didn’t chase headlines, didn’t ask for sympathy, and didn’t try to rewrite history. She simply lived her truth, and in doing so, became a quiet role model for authenticity and self-respect.
Legacy and Reflection
Today, Susan Deixler continues to live away from the noise of celebrity culture. While her name might always be linked to Barry Manilow in search engines and fan discussions, she has carved out her own path—one defined not by who she married, but by how she lived after. Her children and grandchildren are a part of that legacy, as is the calm and centered life she chose to build.
It’s worth reflecting on how our culture often values fame more than character, spotlight more than substance. Susan’s story challenges that narrative. It invites us to look beyond the glitter and examine the real people behind celebrity legends—people who love, lose, and grow just like the rest of us.
Conclusion: A Story Worth Remembering
The untold story of Susan Deixler is not just about a brief marriage to a pop icon. It’s about strength, grace, and the courage to walk a different path. Her life serves as a reminder that being connected to fame doesn’t define a person’s worth. What matters more is how one handles life’s complexities—with kindness, dignity, and authenticity.
While Barry Manilow’s music continues to touch millions around the world, the story of Susan Deixler quietly inspires in its own way. It teaches us that even the people outside the spotlight have powerful stories to tell—stories worth remembering.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Who is Susan Deixler?
- Susan Deixler is best known as the high school sweetheart and first wife of pop icon Barry Manilow. They were married briefly in 1964 before their marriage was annulled in 1965.
2. Why did Susan Deixler and Barry Manilow separate?
- Their marriage ended mainly due to Barry Manilow’s decision to focus on his budding music career. Barry later came out as gay, which also sheds light on the emotional complexities behind their separation.
3. What did Susan Deixler do after her marriage to Barry Manilow?
- Susan chose a quiet, private life. She remarried, raised two children, and pursued a career in holistic wellness. She stayed away from the public eye and avoided media attention.
4. Has Susan Deixler ever spoken publicly about Barry Manilow’s sexuality?
- Susan has addressed the topic with kindness and said she holds no resentment. She expressed genuine well-wishes for Barry and emphasized that she had no regrets about their past.
5. Is Susan Deixler still alive and where is she now?
- Yes, Susan Deixler is still alive. While her exact location is not publicly disclosed, she leads a private life away from the media, focusing on her family and personal passions.
