‘I’m a Daniel O’Donnell Superfan – So Guess What He Did on My Birthday!’
London — While some fans line their shelves with records and posters, others take their devotion to a whole new level. For Jacky Orriss, from Maldon, Essex, admiration for Daniel O’Donnell is not just a hobby — it’s a lifelong passion that has taken her around the world, filled her home with memorabilia, and even earned her a personal phone call from the singer on her birthday.
Jacky, 56, has attended more than 100 of O’Donnell’s concerts, queued overnight in the cold for tickets, and once even travelled to the Bahamas to meet her idol on a fan cruise. Her dedication is matched only by the warmth with which Daniel, now 62, continues to treat his followers.
“I never get tired of seeing him perform — whatever he’s doing,” Jacky told The Mirror. “A highlight for me was getting into Strictly Come Dancing when he was a contestant. Me and my friend queued from 2am in the morning just to be in the audience.”
Her devotion began unexpectedly at 27, when she accompanied her mother Christine to a show. At the time, Jacky was more interested in George Michael than Irish country ballads. But after one night listening to Daniel’s warm voice and heartfelt lyrics, her loyalties shifted. “That was it,” she laughed. “George was out, and Daniel was in.”
Jacky’s fandom has since blossomed into leadership of a Facebook group dedicated to Daniel and his wife, Majella O’Donnell, with over 34,000 members. She is especially fond of Majella, despite admitting that some fans were initially less welcoming. “He lost a few fans after they married, but I think she’s lovely. She makes him happy, so I’m pleased for him,” she said.
Her loyalty hasn’t gone unnoticed. On her 50th birthday, Daniel sent Jacky a personal video message, a moment she describes as unforgettable. “He’s so lovely. He’ll give you a hug and a quick chat after shows. I used to get so nervous, but he puts you at ease. He’s just a genuine person, and he cares so much for his fans.”
Jacky’s collection of Daniel memorabilia reflects her years of devotion. It includes plates, ornaments, and even salt and pepper shakers adorned with his face. But her most prized possession is a scarf covered with Daniel’s image and decorated with badges collected from concerts across decades.
Her favourite song changes often, though she is currently partial to God Has Angels and still treasures classics like Walk Through This World With Me. “I just downloaded his new Greatest Hits album this morning,” she admitted.
Jacky’s passion coincides with Daniel’s latest achievement: 37 consecutive years with a different album charting in the UK — a record unmatched even by many global superstars. From his humble beginnings in Kincasslagh, Donegal, to sold-out tours across America and Canada, Daniel has remained remarkably grounded.
Speaking about the record, Daniel said: “It’s gratifying. It means there are a lot of people who want to hear what you do. The audience has been very loyal all these years. Hopefully that record won’t be broken now, but if it is, I won’t be here to see it!”
Currently preparing for a 28-show tour of North America, Daniel remains committed to his tradition of meeting fans after performances. “I enjoy it,” he explained. “Where I come from, everyone knows everyone. It’s just an extension of that really.”
For Jacky, those little moments of connection matter most. Whether it’s a slow dance at a dinner-and-dance event in Colchester or a brief chat after a concert, they affirm why she has spent nearly three decades following him. “He’s genuine. He’s caring. And he never forgets his fans,” she said.
As Daniel celebrates 40 years in music, fans like Jacky remind the world why his career has endured. In her words: “He’s not just a singer. He’s part of our lives.”