Showbiz Legend Cliff Richard Says He’s ‘In Awe’ of Friend Daniel O’Donnell
Under the warm Caribbean sun at his home in Barbados, Sir Cliff Richard reflects on a friendship that has spanned decades — one with Irish country star Daniel O’Donnell. The two first crossed paths in the early days of Daniel’s career, and over time, their connection has grown into a deep and genuine bond.
As Daniel marks 40 years in music, Cliff — who has spent more than six decades at the top of the entertainment industry — is quick to praise the Donegal singer’s achievements. “Anybody that gets past five years in this business is doing well, so 40 years is absolutely phenomenal,” Cliff says. “Daniel absolutely deserves his success because he’s worked his butt off and has been loyal to his audience all the way through.”
Cliff, the only artist to have a Top 5 hit in eight consecutive decades, recalls his first impression of O’Donnell. At a Birmingham show years ago, Daniel arrived with fans on a bus. “That was the first time we met,” Cliff remembers. “I immediately thought, ‘This guy is different.’” Later, in Edinburgh, they met again — Cliff was performing at the Usher Hall, Daniel at a 200-seat venue that sold out. The pair went to dinner afterward, and Cliff was struck by Daniel’s dedication. “He told me he’d been signing all 200 autographs,” Cliff says. “I’m in awe of him because he still does that.”
That commitment to his fans, Cliff believes, is part of Daniel’s enduring appeal. “When I see him on stage, I can see why audiences love him,” he says. “It’s the Irish charm. He makes people feel like he’s talking just to them. Many modern acts don’t engage much with their crowds, but Daniel has it — that ability to connect.”
Their friendship extends far beyond the stage. “Our friendship is not just a showbiz one, it’s a genuine friendship,” Cliff explains. “We meet up regularly. I’ve stayed at their apartment in Dublin, and Daniel and Majella have stayed here in Barbados.” He is also full of admiration for Majella O’Donnell, praising her honesty, openness, and love of retreating to Owey Island for reflection. “Daniel is lucky to have her in his life,” Cliff says warmly.
The bond was tested — and strengthened — during one of the most difficult periods of Cliff’s life. In 2014, false allegations of sexual assault led to a police raid on his home, broadcast live by the BBC. The ordeal lasted two years and took a heavy toll. “Daniel and Majella were publicly supportive and kept in contact with me,” Cliff recalls. “They say you find out your friends in the bad times, and certainly they were a couple I knew were really good friends.”
They visited him in Portugal, where he was based during much of the legal battle. “They came and stayed with us,” Cliff says. “It meant so much to know they didn’t believe a single word of the allegations.” While South Yorkshire Police later issued a public apology, the BBC stopped short of doing the same — something Cliff still finds disappointing.
Looking back, Cliff remains grateful for O’Donnell’s unwavering support. “He and Majella were constantly in touch. It helped me a great deal, even though it didn’t solve the problem. Eventually, after the police apologised, I felt able to speak about it for the first time.”
For Cliff, the friendship with Daniel is one built on mutual respect, admiration, and loyalty — rare qualities in an industry often defined by fleeting connections. “He deserves every success he gets,” Cliff says. “And long may it last.”