Cliff Richard Opens Up: “I’ve Had Girlfriends, But I’ve Never Been Married”
Sir Cliff Richard, the beloved British music icon, has long kept fans guessing when it comes to his personal life. Despite being in the spotlight for over six decades and selling more than 250 million records worldwide, Cliff’s love life has remained largely a mystery – leading to decades of speculation and rumor.
In a rare and candid interview, Cliff finally addressed the question that has followed him for most of his career: Why has he never married?
“Yes, I’ve had girlfriends. But I’ve never been married. And I never felt the need to just because others expected me to.”
Past Romances – The Woman Behind the Legend
Although Cliff Richard never married, he hasn’t lived a life without romance. He once had a high-profile relationship with tennis star Sue Barker in the 1980s. Their pairing drew media attention, and fans thought it could lead to marriage. But both ultimately chose different paths.
“I did love,” he admitted. “But I think if I had gotten married, I wouldn’t have had the kind of career I’ve had. I’ve never regretted it.”
Cliff made it clear that love was part of his life, but his commitment to music, his lifestyle, and perhaps even his spiritual values, shaped his decision not to settle down traditionally.
Decades of Rumors and Whispered Questions
His decision to remain single and his private nature led to years of rumors – some benign, others unfair and intrusive. Questions about his sexuality or speculation about hidden relationships often surfaced, especially during his peak fame in the 70s and 80s.
But Cliff, with signature grace, never lashed out or felt compelled to clarify the noise around him.
“People like to speculate. But I’ve never felt the need to explain myself to the world. I know who I am – and that’s enough.”
The Choice of Peace and Independence
Now at 83, Cliff continues to tour and record. Far from living a lonely life, he surrounds himself with loyal friends and enjoys a peaceful, self-directed lifestyle. His choice to remain unmarried wasn’t born of fear or secrecy, but rather a conscious path of freedom and fulfillment.
“I’ve been blessed,” he says. “Not everyone’s life looks the same. Mine just happened to take a different route.”
For fans who have followed his journey closely, this glimpse into Cliff Richard’s heart is perhaps the most revealing yet. No scandal, no drama – just an honest reflection on a life lived on his own terms.