Richard Coles Captures Hearts on I’m A Celebrity After Finishing Third Place
A Remarkable Journey from the Communards to the Jungle
Richard Coles is an English writer, radio presenter and Church of England priest who has captivated British audiences with his unique life story. After playing in the 1980s band Bronski Beat, he came to prominence as the multi-instrumentalist who partnered Jimmy Somerville in the band the Communards, achieving massive success with hits including the number one single “Don’t Leave Me This Way”.
Recent Television Success on I’m A Celebrity
From 21 November 2024, Coles was a contestant on the 2024 series of I’m a Celebrity…Get Me Out of Here!, coming third. His appearance on the popular ITV reality show has been widely praised, with commentators noting he embodied “all the qualities we would hope for in leader of the Church of England” during a difficult period for the institution.
The final episode saw finalists Danny Jones, Coleen Rooney and Richard Coles take on one last bushtucker trial, with Danny Jones ultimately crowned winner. Despite finishing third, Richard’s warmth, humour and candid conversations about faith and sexuality resonated deeply with viewers, many of whom felt he deserved to win.
A Voice for LGBTQ+ Inclusion in the Church
Richard’s appearance on the show was particularly significant given his recent retirement from parish ministry. After nearly 20 years in the Church of England, Reverend Richard Coles retired in 2022, citing differences of opinion about how gay couples “are not welcome” as one of the reasons. During the programme, he spoke openly with fellow contestant GK Barry about his experiences as a gay priest, helping to humanise discussions around faith and sexuality.
His personal life has been marked by both joy and tragedy. In 2007, Coles began a relationship with David Oldham, who was also an Anglican priest, and David Coles died in December 2019 from alcoholic liver disease.
Continuing Influence as Writer and Broadcaster
Beyond his jungle adventure, Richard continues to be a prolific author and media personality. He frequently appears on radio and television as well as in newspapers and, from March 2011 until March 2023, was the co-host of BBC Radio 4’s Saturday Live programme. He has also found success as a crime novelist, with his Canon Clement mystery series gaining popularity among readers who appreciate cosy crime fiction with authentic clerical insight.
Richard Coles’ third-place finish on I’m A Celebrity represents another chapter in his extraordinary career, demonstrating that authenticity, compassion and humour can resonate powerfully with modern audiences, regardless of background or belief.