Growing up in the UK, the name Cliff Richard has always carried a certain legacy. For many of us, he represents decades of timeless music, charismatic television appearances, and an enduring presence in British pop culture.
Yet behind his immense fame, one question has lingered in the minds of fans and the public for years, who is Cliff Richard’s partner? The curiosity surrounding his love life has been the subject of countless interviews, tabloid headlines, and speculative gossip.
Despite being in the public eye since the 1950s, Sir Cliff has remained famously private about his romantic relationships, fuelling even more intrigue over the years.
In this comprehensive article, we delve into the full story of Cliff Richard’s partner, relationships, close friendships, sexuality rumours, and how he has navigated public curiosity with grace and dignity.
Who Is Cliff Richard?
Cliff Richard, whose birth name is Harry Rodger Webb, was born on 14 October 1940 in Lucknow, United Provinces, British India (now India). His early life began far from the UK, where he would eventually become one of the most influential figures in British music history.
Early Life and Family
He was born to Rodger Oscar Webb and Dorothy Marie Dazely, a devout Christian family that shaped much of Cliff’s values and worldview. After India’s independence, the family relocated to the United Kingdom in 1948, settling first in Carshalton, Surrey, and later in Cheshunt, Hertfordshire.
Cliff attended Cheshunt Secondary Modern School, where he was known as a quiet and creative student. His interest in music blossomed during his teenage years, inspired by the emerging rock ‘n’ roll sound in the United States.
The Rise to Stardom
In 1958, Cliff Richard made his debut under the stage name that would become iconic. With his backing group, The Shadows, he released his breakthrough hit “Move It”, a song that is often considered the first authentic British rock and roll single. From there, his career skyrocketed.
He dominated the charts through the 1960s and 70s with hits like “Living Doll”, “Summer Holiday”, and “Bachelor Boy”. In addition to music, Cliff also starred in several films and TV specials, cementing his place as a household name in Britain.
Musical Evolution
As a performer, Cliff Richard evolved over time. His musical style transitioned from rock and roll to pop, rockabilly, pop rock, and even Contemporary Christian Music (CCM). His faith has remained central to his career and public identity, often influencing his artistic choices.
With over 250 million records sold worldwide, Cliff remains one of the UK’s best-selling music artists. As of 2025, his career spans more than six decades, a testament to his incredible staying power and relevance.
Who Is Cliff Richards Partner?
The question of who Cliff Richard’s partner is has been the subject of speculation for years. Yet, unlike many celebrities, he has never publicly confirmed a long-term romantic partner, nor has he ever married.
The most discussed figure in relation to Cliff’s love life is John McElynn, a former Roman Catholic priest turned property manager.
John McElynn – A Deep and Long Friendship
Cliff Richard and John McElynn became close in the early 2000s. They lived together in Cliff’s Barbados home for nearly 30 years, leading to widespread speculation that McElynn was more than just a friend.
While Cliff has never labelled the relationship, he described John as someone who gave him companionship and support, particularly during emotional times.
Cliff once stated that John was his “companion” and that they shared “a deep friendship”. However, he strongly refuted claims about his sexuality and reiterated his desire for privacy. McElynn sadly passed away in late 2022, leaving Cliff grieving but still choosing to keep their relationship respectfully private.
Cliff Richard’s Public Stance
Throughout the years, Cliff Richard has been open about the pressures of celebrity life and why he chose not to settle down.
He once said he did not want the responsibilities that come with marriage and children, stating that it may have distracted from his career. While he has admitted to having relationships, he values companionship over traditional marriage.
Is Cliff Richard Married Or Ever Been Married?
Cliff Richard has never been married, and this has remained one of the defining aspects of his personal life. He has addressed this in various interviews, explaining that his decision wasn’t due to a lack of love or companionship but rather a conscious choice to maintain independence.
Reasons for Staying Single
Cliff has often cited:
- Fear of emotional commitment due to his demanding career
- Desire to focus on music and faith
- Avoidance of marital responsibilities that could detract from his lifestyle
He also admitted to moments of loneliness but has stated that he prefers his freedom. Cliff once famously said, “It’s better to be alone than in a bad relationship.”
What Do We Know About Cliff Richard And John McElynn’s Relationship?
John McElynn entered Cliff Richard’s life in the early 2000s. A native of the United States and formerly a priest, McElynn met Cliff through a mutual friend in the church. Their friendship quickly deepened, and John moved into Cliff’s Barbados home, becoming his live-in companion.
A Bond That Transcended Labels
Though many speculated about the romantic nature of their relationship, Cliff always refused to categorise it. He did, however, express deep love and admiration for McElynn and said he was a source of strength, especially during his legal battles and personal losses.
McElynn passed away in 2022, and Cliff admitted it left a deep void in his life. Even in his memoirs, Cliff reflects on their connection with affection and respect, choosing privacy over public explanation.
Who Has Cliff Richard Dated?
Though never married, Cliff Richard has had several relationships that were confirmed over the years. These include some of the most prominent female figures in British entertainment.
Confirmed Romantic Relationships
- Sue Barker (1982–1986): The former tennis star and BBC presenter was in a high-profile relationship with Cliff. They were often seen together in public, sparking rumours of a potential engagement.
- Una Stubbs (1961): A popular actress best known for roles in Sherlock and Worzel Gummidge.
- Delia Wicks (1960): A former dancer who spoke openly about her time with Cliff before he ended the relationship.
- Jackie Irving: A British model and one of his lesser-known romantic links.
Romantic Encounters
- Carol Costa Harris (1959): A brief fling.
- Carol Ann Harris: Another woman he was connected with, though details are sparse.
Despite these links, Cliff maintained that none of these relationships felt right enough to lead to marriage.
Was Cliff Richard Ever Engaged Or Close To Getting Married?
There were moments when marriage seemed like a possibility. Most notably, his relationship with Sue Barker appeared to be serious enough that fans speculated an engagement might be around the corner. However, Cliff later admitted that while he loved Sue, he couldn’t fully commit to marriage due to his career focus.
Near-Marriage Moments
- Cliff mentioned being deeply affected by his breakup with Delia Wicks, even expressing guilt for hurting her.
- With Sue Barker, he said he genuinely considered marriage but decided against it.
These moments reflect Cliff’s ongoing internal struggle between his personal desires and professional responsibilities.
Are The Gay Rumours About Cliff Richard True Or Just Speculation?
Speculation about Cliff Richard’s sexuality has followed him for decades. Various tabloids have published unverified stories, and public curiosity peaked in the 2000s when he began living with John McElynn.
Cliff’s Response
Cliff has consistently denied being gay. In a 2016 interview, he said, “I am sick to death of all these gay rumours. If I was gay, why wouldn’t I admit it? It wouldn’t hurt my career.” His statement was firm and clear, while he supports LGBTQ+ rights, he is not gay and finds the repeated speculation disrespectful.
He also stressed that personal labels shouldn’t matter and that his life should be respected regardless of who he spends it with.
How Has Cliff Richard’s Faith Influenced His Love Life And Choices?
Faith has always been a cornerstone of Cliff Richard’s life. A committed Christian, Cliff became publicly involved in Christian movements from the 1960s onwards and even considered becoming a missionary at one point.
Christian Influence on Personal Life
- Cliff credits his faith for helping him maintain celibacy.
- He believes in moral integrity, often turning down opportunities that conflict with his beliefs.
- He regularly attends church and has participated in charity work across religious causes.
His relationship choices have often been guided by his beliefs, and he has expressed that he would only marry someone who shared his religious convictions.
What Role Did Sue Barker Play In Cliff Richard’s Romantic History?
Sue Barker remains one of the most significant figures in Cliff Richard’s romantic history. Their relationship lasted from 1982 to 1986 and was widely covered by the media.
Key Highlights
- They met at a celebrity tennis match and quickly formed a close bond.
- Cliff described Sue as “the only woman I seriously considered marrying”.
- Sue later revealed that they parted amicably due to differing life goals.
Though they never married, the two have remained on friendly terms over the years, occasionally speaking about each other in interviews.
How Does Cliff Richard Handle Public And Media Curiosity About His Private Life?
Cliff Richard has faced intense media scrutiny over the years, especially regarding his sexuality and personal life. He took legal action against the BBC in 2018 for their coverage of a police raid on his home, which led to a high-profile privacy case that Cliff won.
Coping With Curiosity
- Cliff believes in protecting his privacy and has become more selective in interviews.
- He is known for being calm and composed, even when confronting intrusive questions.
- He uses his public platform to advocate for privacy rights, especially for celebrities falsely accused or speculated about.
Despite the curiosity, Cliff has managed to maintain his dignity and control over his personal narrative.
What Is Cliff Richard’s Net Worth In 2025?
As of 2025, Cliff Richard’s net worth is estimated to be approximately £90 million. This wealth has been accumulated through a successful music and acting career, global tours, royalties, and investments in property.
Key Revenue Streams
- Music Sales: With over 130 Top 20 UK singles, Cliff has earned significant income through record sales and royalties.
- Concert Tours: He continues to perform, drawing large audiences in the UK and abroad.
- Books and Biographies: His autobiographies have been bestsellers, including his 2023 memoir “A Head Full of Music”.
- Real Estate: Cliff owns homes in Barbados, Surrey, and Portugal. His estate in Barbados, which he shared with John McElynn, has increased in value over the years.
Cliff Richard is not just a singer; he’s also a savvy businessman. Despite controversies and media intrusion, his financial success remains intact and carefully managed.
Conclusion
Cliff Richard is an icon whose life has fascinated fans for generations. Whether it’s his unmatched musical legacy, steadfast Christian faith, or intensely private personal life, Cliff continues to captivate the public’s imagination.
While he has chosen to keep many aspects of his romantic life out of the spotlight, the relationships and friendships he’s nurtured speak volumes about his character.
As of 2025, the mystery around who is Cliff Richard’s partner remains intentionally unanswered, a decision that reflects his values more than anything else. In a world where every detail is scrutinised, Cliff’s choice to protect his heart and relationships is both respectable and rare.
FAQs
Is Cliff Richard currently in a relationship in 2025?
There is no confirmed romantic partner for Cliff Richard in 2025. He remains single and private about his personal life.
Did Cliff Richard ever confirm being gay?
No, Cliff Richard has denied being gay multiple times and said he would have come out if it were true.
How long did Cliff Richard and John McElynn live together?
They lived together for nearly 30 years until John’s passing in 2022.
Why did Cliff Richard never marry?
Cliff has cited career focus, personal freedom, and his Christian beliefs as reasons for not marrying.
Was Sue Barker Cliff Richard’s most serious relationship?
Yes, Sue Barker is considered his most serious relationship, and he even considered marrying her.
Does Cliff Richard have children?
No, Cliff Richard does not have any children.
How has Cliff Richard’s faith influenced his lifestyle?
His faith has played a major role in his decision to remain celibate and not marry.
