Paul McCartney seemed to have put his troubles behind him, for one night at least, as he attended the launch of a new cafe at London's National Gallery with a pal on Thursday.
Asked how he was, the former Beatle replied "terrific" as he arrived with the artist Brian Clarke, who is a close friend. During his first public appearance since court details of his impending divorce from Heather were leaked to the press, Paul appeared relaxed and in good spirits.
"It's a very difficult time for me," the 64-year-old recently admitted. "But with the support of my friends and family, I'm managing to get through." He also revealed he still wants an amicable conclusion to his increasingly acrimonious divorce settlement, for the sake of his and Heather's daughter, who turns three on Saturday. "I'm just hoping for a happy resolution, particularly for the sake of our beautiful daughter, Beatrice, and my other children, who are all beautiful. Fingers crossed."
Sir Paul made the comments to a US magazine before allegations that he mistreated Heather hit the press. Last week the star's lawyers insisted he would "vigorously defend" himself over the claims.
In recent weeks loved-ones and close friends have rallied round the troubled singer. Earlier this week he joined daughter Stella and her publisher husband Alasdhair Willis for several hours at a pub in Notting Hill, where one onlooker noted, "they were all being very affectionate and supportive". Meanwhile, celebrities close to the multi-millionaire, including Cilla Black, Rod Stewart and Kate Moss, have all spoken out with words of support.
In the latest twist Paul is apparently blocking the disclosure of the contents of 15 audio tapes made by his late wife Linda. It is not known whether the 20 hours of taped material - which is in the hands of Linda's friend Peter Cox - has any relevance to the current proceedings.
Photo: © Alphapress.com
