The Original Alternate Ending Of “Mistletoe And Wine” — And Why He Changed It

April 1, 2025

As the winter winds howled outside, Cliff Richard sat in his cozy studio, surrounded by the soft glow of twinkling lights and the smell of pine. It was 1988, and Christmas was just around the corner. Cliff was busy working on a beautiful song called “Mistletoe and Wine,” a melody he had poured his heart into, capturing the warmth and magic of the holiday season. However, there was a problem. As he listened to the recording, an alternative ending tugged at his mind—a darker, more somber conclusion that seemed to clash with the joy of Christmas.

In this alternate ending, the song would take a surprising turn. Instead of the uplifting message of love and togetherness, it would end on a note of longing and sadness. Cliff imagined a world where love was fleeting, where people would remember the happiness of Christmas but also feel the shadows of loneliness creeping in. It was a reflection of the struggles many faced during the holidays, and Cliff could feel the weight of those emotions in his heart. He spent hours crafting the lyrics, pouring out his thoughts, seeking to connect with anyone who had ever felt alone during the festive season.

However, as the days went on, Cliff found himself staring at the finished product with unease. He was known for bringing joy and upliftment through his music, and this alternate ending felt out of place. The very essence of Christmas was about hope, love, and togetherness. He realized that while the somber portrayal was genuine, it didn’t align with the spirit of the holiday he wanted to celebrate. In that moment of reflection, he decided to embrace the light, transforming his original idea into something brighter and more hopeful.

The final version of “Mistletoe and Wine” blossomed into a song that resonated with the hearts of millions. It spoke of family gatherings, laughter, and the warmth of love, bringing people together under the mistletoe. As it soared to number one on the charts, Cliff felt a profound sense of relief and joy. This song became more than just a hit; it became a symbol of the strength and resilience of the human spirit during the toughest of times. He realized that sometimes, a change in direction is necessary, especially when it comes to sharing art that can uplift and heal.

Cliff’s decision to change the ending to a more optimistic tone not only captured the essence of Christmas but also rejuvenated his own career. It reminded him of why he loved making music in the first place: to inspire and connect with others. Years later, he looked back on that moment with gratitude, understanding that the initial darkness he considered was part of his creative journey. It was a lesson in resilience, showing him that art should reflect the light we wish to see in the world.

In the end, “Mistletoe and Wine” became a cherished holiday classic, played at gatherings and celebrations around the world. Cliff Richard’s choice to embrace joy over sorrow not only changed his life but deepened the connection he had with his audience. His journey taught him that while sadness is a part of life, there is always space for hope and love to shine through, especially during the magical season of Christmas.