Reverend Richard Coles and his late husband, David Oldham, shared a unique partnership that resonated deeply with their fans and community. Their personal and professional lives offered a blend of spirituality, compassion, and creativity. Below is an in-depth look at their biographies, careers, family, and net worth, as well as their deeply personal relationship.
Who Is Reverend Richard Coles?
Reverend Richard Coles is a multifaceted personality—a former pop star, priest, author, and broadcaster. Born on March 26, 1962, in Northampton, England, Coles rose to fame in the 1980s as a member of the band The Communards. Alongside his bandmate Jimmy Somerville, they achieved international success with hits like Don’t Leave Me This Way.
After leaving the music industry, Coles felt a calling to serve in a different capacity. He studied theology and was ordained as a Church of England priest in 2005. Coles has since balanced his spiritual duties with an active media career. He is well-known for his appearances on BBC Radio 4’s Saturday Live and his participation in TV shows like Strictly Come Dancing.
Height and Weight
Reverend Richard Coles stands approximately 5 feet 9 inches (175 cm) tall and weighs around 75 kg (165 lbs).
Net Worth
With a career spanning decades in music, broadcasting, and writing, Richard Coles has an estimated net worth of £3 million.
Who Was David Oldham?
David Oldham was the long-time partner and later husband of Reverend Richard Coles. David, like Richard, was deeply involved in the church, serving as a curate and later becoming a parish priest. He was known for his warm personality, dedication to pastoral care, and support for the LGBTQ+ community within the church.
Born in the United Kingdom, Oldham kept a relatively low profile compared to his famous husband. While he worked in ministry, he also supported Richard in his media career, creating a strong partnership rooted in mutual respect and shared values.
Height and Weight
David Oldham was approximately 6 feet (183 cm) tall and weighed around 80 kg (176 lbs).
Net Worth
David Oldham’s net worth was estimated to be around £500,000 at the time of his passing. His wealth came from his work in the church and shared assets with Richard Coles.
The Relationship Between Reverend Richard Coles and David Oldham
Richard Coles and David Oldham were pioneers in representing same-sex relationships within the clergy. Despite facing challenges, they demonstrated that faith and love could coexist harmoniously. Their partnership was deeply rooted in their mutual passion for ministry and their commitment to fostering an inclusive church environment.
The couple shared a home in Finedon, Northamptonshire, where they lived with their beloved dachshunds. Richard often shared glimpses of their life together on social media, giving fans an insight into their loving and humorous bond.
Tragically, David Oldham passed away in December 2019. Richard Coles described his husband’s death as a “devastating loss” and openly discussed his grief, helping others understand the complexities of love and loss.
Career Highlights
Richard Coles’ Career
- Music Career:
- A member of The Communards, Richard achieved chart-topping success with hits like Don’t Leave Me This Way.
- Known for their fusion of pop and activism, the band addressed LGBTQ+ rights and HIV/AIDS awareness.
- Clergy and Ministry:
- Ordained in 2005, Richard has served as a vicar in multiple parishes.
- Known for his progressive views, he has worked to make the church more inclusive.
- Media Career:
- Co-presenter of BBC Radio 4’s Saturday Live.
- Participant in Strictly Come Dancing in 2017.
- Author of several books, including Fathomless Riches and The Madness of Grief.
- Advocacy:
- Vocal supporter of LGBTQ+ rights within the church.
- Promotes discussions about mental health, grief, and spirituality.
David Oldham’s Career
- Ministry:
- A dedicated curate and parish priest, David focused on community outreach and pastoral care.
- Advocated for LGBTQ+ inclusion in religious spaces.
- Support Role:
- Played a vital role in supporting Richard Coles’ public and spiritual endeavors.
Family Life
While they did not have children, Richard and David considered their dogs an essential part of their family. The dachshunds were a source of comfort and joy for the couple, often featured in Richard’s social media posts.
Richard remains close to David’s extended family and continues to honor his memory through his work and public engagements.
Legacy and Influence
The relationship between Richard Coles and David Oldham broke barriers, demonstrating that clergy members could have fulfilling personal lives while serving their communities. Their journey inspired countless individuals struggling to reconcile their faith and identity.
Even after David’s passing, Richard has continued to use his platform to advocate for inclusion, love, and compassion. His candid discussions about grief in his book The Madness of Grief have resonated with readers, offering solace to those navigating similar experiences.