Still got six appeal! Cliff’s 80th, Covid-style
FANS around the world wished Sir Cliff Richard huge Congratulations on his 80th birthday yesterday – but the star did not seem too pleased he could only celebrate with five friends.
The singer, who had been due to mark his milestone with concerts for 20,000 fans, pulled a face as he stuck up six fingers in a birthday video – in a clear reference to the ‘rule of six’ Covid restriction.
In the film, which appeared to be recorded in his living room, Sir Cliff was surrounded by balloons and banners and wore a sash and badge to celebrate his big day. He said: ‘Hi everybody. I have to say it’s really nice to be here to be back in the UK to be celebrating my 80th birthday, but remember it’s just a number.
‘I was planning to celebrate with 20,000 people spread over four days at the Royal Albert Hall.
‘But Covid-19 came and, of course, I’ve had to whittle those numbers down somewhat so I’ve got to six.
‘Anyway, it’s been fantastic looking forward to my birthday and I’m seeing friends, socially-distanced of course.’ On the eve of his birthday the tennis-loving star returned to his beloved Wimbledon – where he famously entertained Centre Court crowds in 1996 when rain stopped play. He played a game with Davis Cup ace James Ward, 33 – keeping any rain off with a weather-proof dome.
In the video Sir Cliff revealed that he had spent much of lockdown in a room on his own, recording the audio version of his autobiography.
Meanwhile, it was announced yesterday that the veteran star will appear on Piers Morgan’s Life Stories on ITV on October 25.