Reverend Richard Coles, beloved for his engaging personality and earnest approach to life, has once again captured the attention of the public with his participation on the hit reality show I’m A Celebrity...Get Me Out Of Here!. The 62-year-old priest and former frontman of the 80s synth-pop duo The Communards has charmed audiences not just with his candidness on the show but also with snippets of his personal life, particularly surrounding the loss of his late husband, David Oldham.
David Oldham, who passed away tragically from alcoholic liver disease just before Christmas 2019, had been Richard’s partner for over 12 years. Their civil partnership began in 2010, solidifying their bond after years of love and support. Coles often reflects on the emotional weight of David’s death, which he shared with fellow campmate Oti Mabuse on the show. “I miss him... He’s just left a massive hole in my life and I’m living my life around the loss,” Coles tearfully recounted, providing viewers with a raw look at his grief.
Coles’ openness about his struggles with losing David is remarkable. He has previously detailed the painful experience of watching someone he loved battle addiction, describing it as trying to save someone who is drowning but unable to grasp the lifeline offered. His poignant words resonate deeply, connecting with many who understand the complex emotions tied to loss and love.
After David's death, Coles found solace not only in his spirituality but also in community engagement, including his role on BBC Radio 4’s Saturday Live and various guest appearances on popular British TV shows such as QI and Strictly Come Dancing, where he endeared himself to audiences with his humorous self-deprecation about his dance skills.
Despite the emotional turmoil following his husband's death, Richard has rekindled his romantic life. He started dating actor Richard “Dickie” Cant, whom he met through the dating app EliteSingles. Dickie, 58, is recognized for his roles in Doctor Who and Mary Queen of Scots and has been described by Coles as “stunning.” Their relationship blossomed quickly, with Coles noting, “From the minute we met – boom! I never for a minute thought – no matter what happened – we would ever part.”
The couple’s first date took place at the Royal Horticultural Society, and Coles distinctly remembers feeling as if he wanted to see Dickie again right away. This new chapter has brought him joy, even as he continues to navigate the grief of losing David. "I thought I was out of the game after losing David... but, like a bear coming out of hibernation, I suddenly felt hungry for someone to share my life with," he reflected, showcasing the resilience and hope following heartache.
Coles’ charm on I’m A Celebrity also stems from his witty interactions with other contestants, including the likes of Maura Higgins and his engaging conversations about sexuality and identity. He candidly discussed his experiences growing up gay, illuminating the difficulties he faced and the gradual acceptance he found both within himself and his community. This authenticity resonates with fans and highlights not just his fame as a former pop star but also his role as a significant figure advocating for LGBTQ+ acceptance.
Reflecting on his life's experiences, Richard Coles continues to blend his roles as both entertainer and clergyman, using his platform to inspire conversations around grief, love, and acceptance. His return to the spotlight through reality television allows him to connect with audiences at various levels, making him not just relatable but also emblematic of perseverance through trauma.
Coles openly admits the complexity of dating again, especially as someone who still grieves the loss of his husband. Yet, he expresses gratitude for the newfound joy Dickie brings. “Watching Dickie at work makes my heart beat faster; he’s stunning,” Richard shared, fondly recalling moments spent watching his partner perform.
The relationship dynamics are deepened by their shared experiences as actors; each supports the other’s career and provides companionship amid the highs and lows of public life. Their love story offers hope to many, showcasing how one can find light after enduring dark times.
Richard has also been vocal about his mental health struggles following David's death, candidly discussing his own battles with depression, which he has carried with him through his life. By openly discussing these experiences, he sheds light on the importance of mental health awareness, especially within the LGBTQ+ community.
Coles' story—melding grief, new love, and resilience—serves as a potent reminder of the human capacity to heal and move forward. His experiences echo loudly, not only providing entertainment but also inspiring those who find themselves at similar crossroads, facing both loss and the uncertainty of love.
Through heartfelt confessions and humorous quips on reality television, Reverend Richard Coles is unexpectedly becoming not just a beloved personality but also a voice of resilience for so many grappling with their own losses and life transitions.
While viewers may tune in for the entertainment aspect of I’m A Celebrity, they are also witnessing Richard Coles’ powerful narrative of love, loss, and new beginnings. His presence on the show shines brightly against the backdrop of his personal history, making his story all the more compelling.
