Reverend Richard Coles, born on March 26, 1962, in Northampton, England, is a multifaceted English writer, radio presenter, and Church of England priest. He first gained prominence in the 1980s as the multi-instrumentalist partner of Jimmy Somerville in the band The Communards. The duo achieved significant success with three UK top ten hits, including a dance version of "Don't Leave Me This Way," which became the best-selling single of 1986.

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Following his musical career, Coles pursued theological studies at King's College London, earning a BA in Theology in 1994. He was ordained in the Church of England in 2005 and has since served in various capacities, including as the vicar of St Mary the Virgin in Finedon, Northamptonshire, from 2011 until his retirement from parish duties in 2022.

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In addition to his clerical work, Coles has established himself as a prominent broadcaster and writer. He co-presented BBC Radio 4's "Saturday Live" from 2011 until 2023 and has appeared on television programs such as "Would I Lie to You?" and "Have I Got News for You." His literary contributions include both non-fiction and fiction works, notably the memoir "Fathomless Riches: Or How I Went from Pop to Pulpit" and the "Canon Clement" mystery series.

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Throughout his diverse career, Reverend Richard Coles has uniquely bridged the worlds of music, faith, and media, becoming a well-known and respected figure in British public life.