Former glamour model and animal sanctuary owner Jodie Marsh has publicly criticised musician Paul Weller after he distanced himself from an online auction she organised to raise funds for her rescue centre.
The Auction and the Disavowal
Jodie Marsh, 47, informed her social media followers that a collection of Paul Weller memorabilia was up for bids. The items included a gold disc, signed posters, and concert tickets, with proceeds intended for Fripps Farm, her Essex-based sanctuary for over 400 rescued animals.
However, the singer's official account on X (formerly Twitter) soon posted a statement clarifying that the auction was not authorised. 'Paul wants it known that a recent auction that has gone live for competition prizes and memorabilia is not official and not endorsed by him,' the tweet read.
Marsh's Explosive Response on Instagram
In a since-deleted Instagram post, Marsh launched into an extraordinary rant against Weller, who is 67. She directly accused the Modfather of withdrawing support due to her political associations.
'Paul Weller has got the hump because I'm friends with Nigel Farage so he's disassociated himself from the auction,' she claimed. Marsh expressed disappointment, stating it was 'a shame we can't just all get along and have our own opinions'.
She emphasised that the auction was legitimate and voiced her frustration at Weller's stance, given her years of fandom. 'It's just very disappointing from somebody you've done nothing but promote, support and adore for years,' she wrote. Marsh also contrasted Weller's high-profile support for Gaza with his reluctance to back her local animal charity.
The Backstory of Fripps Farm
The drive to establish Fripps Farm was profoundly personal for Marsh. The tragic catalyst was the death of her mother, Kristina, from cancer in September 2020. During the Covid-19 pandemic, Jodie and her father cared for her mother at home.
Reflecting on that period in an interview with the Daily Mail, Marsh said, 'That was what made me realise that life's too short... What's gonna make me happy is having an animal sanctuary, because it's the only thing I've ever truly wanted.'
She has since stepped away from the celebrity spotlight, admitting, 'I hated being famous. If I had money no one would ever see me again!'
Marsh further asserted that the memorabilia was official, originally owned by Weller's late father, John, who managed the singer, and was listed with the support of Nicky Weller. She stressed the urgent need for donations to support the animals at Fripps Farm. Representatives for Paul Weller have been contacted for comment by the Daily Mail.
