Barry Manilow has embraced the role of a stepfather with heartfelt dedication since he began dating Garry Kief in 1978. Although Manilow, who was previously married to Susan Deixler, did not have biological children of his own, he stepped into a parental role for Garry’s daughter, Kirsten Kief, helping raise her from a young age.
In a recent interview, Manilow shared that his inspiration for fatherhood came from his own stepfather, Willie Murphy, who introduced him to the world of music through his impressive collection of records. Manilow expressed gratitude for that influence, stating, “He changed my life with just that little stack of records,” indicating the profound impact it had on his artistic journey.
In exciting news, Manilow revealed in October 2023 that Kirsten has become a mother, marking a new chapter for both him and Garry as they step into grandparenthood. “This is a brand-new experience for me, and I really am enjoying it,” he remarked.
Kirsten Kief was born in 1976, and her father Garry welcomed her with a previous partner. Since he began his long-lasting relationship with Manilow, Garry has balanced his roles as a father and Manilow’s manager effectively. Although they only officially married in 2014, Manilow has been a consistent and supportive figure in Kirsten’s life for nearly four decades.
Kirsten has pursued a career in the entertainment industry, serving as the Director of Business Services at Stiletto Entertainment, an agency founded by her father. Despite her family’s high profile, Kirsten has maintained a low public profile, choosing to remain out of the spotlight.
This family story highlights the power of love, commitment, and the joy of new beginnings, especially as Manilow enters the cherished role of a grandfather. It showcases that family can take many forms, and the bonds formed through love can be just as meaningful as traditional ones.
In summary, Barry Manilow’s journey from a stepfather to a new grandfather is a beautiful illustration of the love and warmth that can exist within a blended family.