Chancellor Reverend Richard Coles switches from bible to bushtucker on I’m A Celeb

Congratulations to the University of Northampton’s Chancellor, Reverend Richard Coles who placed third in the latest instalment of I’m A Celebrity…Get Me Out Of Here!

On display to an average ITV viewership of 7 million people, Reverend Richard Coles joined fellow bandmates Strictly Come Dancing fan-favourite Oti Mabuse, NDubz singer Tulisa Contostavlos, Coleen Rooney – and McFly musician Danny Jones, who was ultimately crowned King of the Jungle.

As well as buckling down to Bushtucker trials which included countless cockroaches, snakes, spiders and fish eyeballs, Richard also embraced the opportunity to discuss issues close to his heart, including his mental health, sexuality, and personal journey with religion.

Richard did not begin his career as a clergyman, instead, he was one-half of the synth-pop duo The Communards and he went on to pursue his religion and turn his life around in the 1990s.

In one particularly poignant moment which gripped the heart of the nation, Reverend Richard Coles spoke with Oti Mabuse and reflected on baptising a premature baby alongside his husband David Oldham, who tragically passed away in 2019.

In his chats with fellow campmates, Richard spoke about the importance of being “frank, candid, open and generous” with his conversations, and his mental health struggles as he continues to “live around his loss” following David’s passing.

In his exit interview, Richard looked back at his three-week experience in the jungle and said the best thing about his I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here! experience was his campmates.

Reverend Richard Coles was installed as Chancellor of the University of Northampton in July 2017. Through his involvement in the life of the University, Richard articulates, sustains and exemplifies its mission and values, and is a focus of inspiration for student and staff communities.

Stay tuned to hear more from Richard after he lands back on home soil from Australia in the coming weeks.