Majella O’Donnell Slams Police Treatment of Cliff Richard: “Completely Unacceptable”
September 2023 — Majella O’Donnell, wife of singer Daniel O’Donnell, has voiced her strong disapproval of how police have handled the recent investigation into her longtime friend, Cliff Richard. In an emotional defense of the 84-year-old singer, Majella condemned the police treatment following a search of one of Richard’s homes over allegations of sexual assault dating back to the 1980s.
Cliff Richard, who has consistently denied the accusations, issued a statement calling the allegations “completely false” after police conducted the search last week.
Majella, who has known Richard for many years, took to social media to express her frustration, posting a link to an article on her Twitter with the caption, “The way the police have treated Cliff Richard is completely unacceptable.”
The tweet sparked a response from one user, who cautioned Majella, saying, “Hope you never have cause to regret that tweet.” Majella wasted no time in responding, saying, “Why would I ever regret it? Cliff has been treated appallingly. What about his rights? There’s nothing to regret.”
Majella and her husband, Daniel O’Donnell, have shared a long friendship with Richard. In fact, Richard sang a duet on Majella’s 2010 album By Request, further highlighting the close bond between the three. Majella had also recently spent time with Richard in Ireland during his tour last summer, sharing a photo and expressing her admiration for the veteran singer. “Great to spend time with Cliff today before he leaves for his Cork concert. Wonderful man,” she wrote on social media.
The police search stems from historic allegations involving Richard and a young boy in the 1980s, but the singer has vehemently denied any wrongdoing. His supporters, including Majella, have raised concerns about the impact of the investigation on Richard’s reputation and the manner in which the investigation has been handled.
Majella’s remarks highlight the continuing public support for Cliff Richard, as many believe that his treatment has been unjust. The investigation into the claims is ongoing, but Richard maintains his innocence, stating that the allegations are entirely without merit.