Gloria Gaynor Opens Up: Forgiving Her Sister’s Killer, Overcoming Hardship, and Finding Strength Through Faith
Music icon Gloria Gaynor, best known for her empowering disco anthem I Will Survive, has reflected on her extraordinary life — from a troubled childhood to international fame, personal tragedy, and her deep Christian faith.
Born in Newark, New Jersey, in 1943, Gaynor grew up as one of seven siblings in a poor household, with her father absent. She has spoken openly about the hardships she faced, including childhood sexual abuse. Despite these challenges, her powerful voice and determination propelled her to global stardom in the 1970s, releasing 20 studio albums and touring the world.
The Song That Defined a Generation
Released in 1978, I Will Survive became an anthem of resilience and empowerment, resonating with fans across generations.
“It encourages people to recognise the inequities in their life and either fix them or walk away,” Gaynor says. “If I didn’t sing it, fans would probably throw ripe tomatoes at me.”
She hopes the song will still be heard 100 years from now, calling it a “moment of catharsis” for both herself and millions of listeners worldwide.
Faith and Forgiveness
Gaynor says her life changed forever in 1982 when she found God. She recalls being at a party in California, about to use drugs, when she felt an overwhelming spiritual intervention.
Her faith would later help her through one of her most painful moments — the 1995 killing of her sister Irma. Irma was stabbed while trying to protect a woman from an abusive man.
“Not forgiving is like taking poison and hoping the other person dies,” Gaynor says. “I turned him over to God.”
She revealed that the man later contacted her sister’s children to apologise.
Surviving Tragedy and Injury
In 1979, Gaynor suffered a serious stage accident that left her temporarily paralysed. She endured multiple surgeries before becoming pain-free in 2018. Despite the physical setbacks, she continues to perform, most recently at the Sani Festival in Greece.
“What gets me on stage at 81 is the response of the audience,” she says. “They let me know I’m giving them hope, encouragement, and joy.”
Life Without Children
Although Gaynor never had children, she is a devoted aunt to 23 nieces and nephews, as well as godmother to several friends’ children.
Lessons from a Lifetime
The best advice she’s ever received came from her mother: “Do what you know is right.”
Gaynor says her biggest regret was marrying the wrong person — a relationship she describes as a “disaster” due to her lack of boundaries.
At 81, she stays active through CrossFit three times a week, reminding others never to stop moving.
A Purpose That Endures
Even after decades in the spotlight, Gaynor remains focused on her mission.
“The very best thing is still having the opportunity to fulfil my God-given purpose. I want to stand before God and hear, ‘Well done.’”
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