Max Clifford, English journalist and publicist

Maxwell Frank Clifford, born on April 6, 1943, was an English publicist whose career was as flamboyant and impactful as the tabloid headlines he helped to create. For decades, he stood as a towering, often controversial, figure in the British media landscape, crafting narratives and managing the reputations of numerous celebrities and public figures. His influence extended across print and television, making him a household name long before his eventual downfall.

A Career Forged in Tabloid Sensationalism

Throughout his extensive career, which spanned many years, Max Clifford became particularly synonymous with the 'kiss and tell' phenomenon. This involved the strategic promotion of intimate, often scandalous, stories sold by individuals—typically former partners or acquaintances—to tabloid newspapers, detailing private encounters with public figures. Clifford's genius lay in his ability to identify, secure, and then expertly place these stories, ensuring maximum exposure and often dictating the terms to the voracious British tabloids. This practice, while immensely lucrative and a staple of sensationalist journalism, often raised ethical questions about privacy and the commodification of personal relationships, cementing his reputation as a master manipulator of public opinion and media narratives.

The Shadow of Operation Yewtree

However, Clifford's carefully constructed world began to unravel dramatically in December 2012. He was arrested on suspicion of sexual offences as part of Operation Yewtree, a significant police investigation launched in the wake of the revelations surrounding the disgraced entertainer Jimmy Savile. Operation Yewtree was specifically designed to investigate historical allegations of sexual abuse involving high-profile individuals, casting a wide net across the entertainment industry and beyond. Clifford's arrest sent shockwaves through the media establishment, signaling a seismic shift in how such allegations would be addressed in the public eye.

Conviction and Imprisonment

Following a protracted legal process, Max Clifford was brought to justice. In May 2014, he was found guilty of eight counts of indecent assault. The victims were four girls and women, aged between 15 and 19 at the time of the offences. The court’s verdict led to a substantial sentence: he was ordered to serve eight years in prison. This conviction marked a definitive end to his public career and served as a stark reminder of the serious consequences awaiting those who abuse their positions of power or trust.

His Final Days

Maxwell Frank Clifford died on December 10, 2017, while incarcerated. His death, at the age of 74, was attributed to a heart attack he suffered while in prison. His passing closed the chapter on a life that was, in equal measure, defined by media notoriety and profound personal scandal, leaving behind a complex legacy that continues to provoke discussion.

Frequently Asked Questions about Max Clifford

Who was Max Clifford?
Max Clifford was a prominent English publicist, known for his ability to generate media attention, particularly through the promotion of sensational 'kiss and tell' stories in British tabloid newspapers. He managed the public images of numerous celebrities and public figures throughout his career.
What was Operation Yewtree?
Operation Yewtree was a high-profile police investigation launched in the UK in 2012, primarily to investigate allegations of historical sexual abuse against individuals in positions of power and public prominence, following the revelations about Jimmy Savile. Max Clifford was one of the many individuals investigated under this operation.
What crimes was Max Clifford convicted of?
Max Clifford was convicted of eight counts of indecent assault on four different girls and women. These offences occurred when the victims were between 15 and 19 years old.
How long was Max Clifford's prison sentence?
He was sentenced to eight years in prison after being found guilty of the indecent assault charges.
How and when did Max Clifford die?
Max Clifford died on December 10, 2017, at the age of 74, after suffering a heart attack while serving his prison sentence.