Petula Clark, the iconic "Downtown" singer, recently shared some heartfelt reflections as she celebrated her 93rd birthday last November. In an intimate interview with Yours magazine, she opened up about reaching this significant age milestone and the emotions that come with it. Reflecting on her life, Petula expressed gratitude for her journey so far. "I never thought I’d live this long. I used to think 65 was old! But 65 came and went and I was still at it," she shared, highlighting her surprise and gratitude for her longevity.
“I’ve had good health, a wonderful family, I’ve met incredible people. I’ve been very lucky," Petula said.
Petula's reflections come a year after the loss of her estranged husband, Claude Wolff, who passed away in March 2024 at the age of 93. The couple, who married in 1961, had three children together. Although they had declared in 2013 that they were "not in a romantic relationship anymore," Petula still feels the weight of his absence. "I’m still mourning [my husband]. My life is like a big landscape now – and I’m not sure where I’m going – but I think I’ll be okay," she revealed.
Despite the challenges, Petula remains surrounded by love and support from her family and close friends. "I have my children and a few friends – I never had time for many, though," she admitted, emphasizing the importance of her close-knit circle.
Over the years, Petula has been candid about her health and the hurdles she has faced. She once recounted how an emergency appendectomy at the age of 21 could have ended her career if not for timely medical intervention. "I had my appendix out as an emergency op at 21. I was in great pain afterwards and it kept getting worse," she recalled.
Petula's story is one of resilience and gratitude, as she continues to look forward with optimism and an appreciation for the life she has led. As she navigates this new chapter, her legacy as a performer and a person remains as vibrant as ever.