Susan Deixler is best known as the first wife of Barry Manilow, the legendary singer, songwriter, and entertainer. Their brief marriage in the 1960s has remained a fascinating chapter in Manilow’s life, particularly because he later described Susan as “the perfect wife” whom he regretted leaving. Despite the brevity of their union, Susan’s story continues to captivate fans curious about her life and her relationship with the iconic musician.
Quick Bio
Full Name | Susan Deixler |
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Date of Birth | Exact date not publicly available |
Age | Estimated to be in her 70s (as of 2025) |
Place of Birth | Likely in the United States |
Known For | Being the ex-wife of Barry Manilow |
Marriage Date | 1964 |
Divorce Date | 1965 |
Profession | Limited information available |
Physical Appearance | Described as attractive and vibrant in her youth |
Famous Connection | Barry Manilow, her ex-husband |
Current Status | Living a private life away from the public eye |
Early Life and Background
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Susan Deixler grew up in the United States, though much of her early life has remained private. From the limited information available, Susan has been described as a vivacious and caring individual. She likely had a traditional upbringing, surrounded by family and friends.
As a young woman, Susan attended Eastern District High School in Brooklyn, New York. It was there that she crossed paths with Barry Manilow, who was also a student at the time. Her classmates remembered her as a lively and charismatic person, which may have been part of her attraction to Manilow.
Meeting Barry Manilow
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Susan first met Barry Manilow during their high school years. Barry, born as Barry Alan Pincus, was a budding musician with dreams of making it big in the music industry. The two quickly formed a bond that eventually turned romantic.
Their relationship deepened over time, and they decided to get married when they were still very young. Barry was just 21 years old at the time, and Susan was in her early twenties. Despite their youth, they seemed deeply in love and hopeful about building a life together.
Who is Barry Manilow?
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Barry Manilow is an internationally acclaimed singer, songwriter, and producer, known for his timeless hits like “Mandy,” “Copacabana,” and “Can’t Smile Without You.” Born on June 17, 1943, in Brooklyn, New York, Barry began his musical journey at a young age, eventually becoming one of the most successful performers in the music industry.
Manilow has sold over 85 million records worldwide and won countless awards, including a Grammy, Emmy, and a Tony. His captivating stage presence and iconic voice have made him a beloved figure in the entertainment world. However, behind the fame, there was a personal story tied to his brief marriage to Susan Deixler that he has spoken about in interviews over the years.
Marriage to Barry Manilow
Susan and Barry tied the knot in 1964 in a small and intimate ceremony. At the time, they were both young and full of dreams, with Barry focusing on building his music career. Susan was supportive of her husband, and by all accounts, their early days as a married couple were happy.
Barry later described Susan as “a beautiful, smart, and loving woman” in interviews, recalling their time together fondly. He often referred to her as the “perfect wife.” However, despite the initial joy, their marriage soon began to unravel.
Marriage Challenges
One of the primary reasons for the collapse of their marriage was Barry’s struggle to reconcile his personal life with his burgeoning music career. In a later interview, Barry revealed that he felt “trapped” in the traditional expectations of marriage at the time, which conflicted with his aspirations.
Barry’s ambitions eventually took precedence, and after less than a year of marriage, the couple separated. Their divorce was finalized in 1965, marking the end of a short-lived but impactful chapter in both their lives.
Life After Divorce
After the divorce, Susan Deixler chose to live a private life and stayed out of the public eye. Unlike Barry, who went on to achieve worldwide fame, Susan avoided the spotlight. There is limited information available about her professional endeavors or personal milestones post-divorce, as she opted to focus on a quiet and independent life.
Barry Manilow, on the other hand, dedicated himself entirely to his career, eventually becoming a global music icon. While Susan’s name occasionally resurfaces in media discussions about Barry’s personal life, she has largely remained distant from the public and entertainment industry.
Personal Growth and Achievements
Although not much is publicly known about Susan Deixler’s later years, her life after Barry Manilow appears to have been one of quiet strength and resilience. She managed to move forward after their divorce, forging her path outside the limelight.
Her decision to maintain her privacy speaks to her desire for a life grounded in authenticity and simplicity, qualities that made her stand out even during her brief marriage to Barry.
Relationship with Barry Post-Divorce
Over the years, Barry Manilow has spoken about Susan with respect and admiration. In interviews, he has described their marriage as a pivotal moment in his life, though he admitted that he was not ready for the commitment at the time.
The two are not known to have maintained a close relationship after their divorce, but there appears to be no animosity between them. Barry has always spoken about Susan fondly, even expressing regret for how their marriage ended.
Legacy and Public Interest
Susan Deixler remains a figure of interest because of her connection to Barry Manilow, a music icon whose life and career have captivated millions. Fans are intrigued by the story of their youthful love and the impact it had on Barry’s personal journey.
Barry himself has credited Susan for being an important part of his life, even though their marriage was short-lived. Her story adds a personal and relatable dimension to Barry’s larger-than-life persona, making her an enduring part of his legacy.
Conclusion
Susan Deixler’s life story, though largely private, offers a glimpse into the complexities of love, ambition, and personal growth. Her brief marriage to Barry Manilow, while fleeting, was a significant chapter in both their lives. While Barry went on to become a global music icon, Susan chose a quieter path, staying true to herself and living life on her terms.
Her story serves as a reminder that every person, even those who step away from the spotlight, plays a vital role in shaping the lives of others. Susan’s grace, resilience, and independence continue to inspire curiosity and admiration.
FAQs About Susan Deixler
Who is Susan Deixler?
Susan Deixler is best known as the first wife of legendary singer Barry Manilow. Their brief marriage in the 1960s has become a significant part of Manilow’s personal history.
Why did Susan Deixler and Barry Manilow divorce?
Their marriage ended after less than a year because Barry felt unready for the commitment and wanted to focus on his music career, despite describing Susan as “the perfect wife.”
What is Susan Deixler doing now?
Susan has chosen to live a private life away from the public eye. There is little information about her current activities, as she has maintained her independence and avoided the spotlight.
Did Susan Deixler influence Barry Manilow’s career?
While Susan was not directly involved in Barry’s music career, their relationship and eventual separation played a pivotal role in shaping his personal journey and early life decisions.
Did Susan Deixler remarry after divorcing Barry Manilow?
There is no publicly available information confirming whether Susan remarried or remained single after her divorce from Barry.
What did Barry Manilow say about Susan Deixler in later interviews?
Barry has expressed fondness and admiration for Susan in interviews, often describing her as a wonderful person and reflecting on their marriage with respect and gratitude.
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