Reverend Richard Coles, a prominent figure blending the roles of former pop star, parish priest, and now crime novelist, is living a multifaceted life in East Sussex. Coles has recently gained attention not only for his literary contributions but also for his engaging personality that thrives both on stage and in writing. As he promotes his new book, "A Death On Location," set to be released on June 5, Coles reveals an intriguing perspective on the world of divas and the intricacies of fame.

Reflecting on his experiences, Coles describes divas as complex characters, capable of both demanding behaviour and profound artistry. “A diva is a rather disparaging term for someone who’s extremely difficult,” Coles noted, adding that these individuals often exist within fiercely competitive environments. This duality fascinates him. He mentioned, “I’ve always been rather fascinated by them,” and shared that his encounters with divas, both on stage and off, fuel much of his writing.

His upcoming tour, "Borderline National Trinket," which kicks off in September 2023, promises to showcase his eclectic journey—from the iconic band The Communards to broadcasting and authorship. Throughout his career, he has embraced fame, as evidenced by his participation in reality TV shows like "Strictly Come Dancing," where he secured a notable third-place finish. In his latest ventures, Coles has transitioned fluidly into the literary realm, forming enriching friendships with fellow authors, including Richard Osman, who framed his success warmly by recalling their earlier discussions about mysteries.

Coles’ exploration of crime writing is further illustrated in his latest novel. The story takes place against the backdrop of a fictional Hollywood film set, where the stakes rise with the murder of an extra. Coles embraces the creative process, admitting to playful research methods, such as asking professionals about unique ways to commit murder—a task he approached with humour while engaged in conversations with dentists and tunnelling experts.

However, Coles’ journey has not been devoid of challenges. Grief has profoundly shaped his recent life experiences, particularly following the tragic loss of his husband, David, in late 2019. His candid discussions about grief—as highlighted in interviews and podcasts—reveal his insights that “intense grief is the tribute that you pay for the person you’ve lost.” This perspective hints at a resiliency that permeates his public persona, allowing him to navigate personal loss while maintaining a vibrant public life.

Coles also reflects on the complexities of balancing his rise to fame with past realities. He shared poignant anecdotes about the transition from being a pop star to returning to everyday life, revealing, “It’s tough when you stop being a pop star and return to civilian ranks.” Yet, he finds joy in the spotlight, emphasizing his enthusiasm for engaging audiences, stating, “If you put on a spotlight, I’ll run towards it.”

Despite his celebrated career, Coles remains grounded in his personal life, where he has established a home with his partner, actor Richard ‘Dickie’ Cant. While they share a love of entertaining, he admits there are humorous moments of adjustment, especially regarding their differing interests in football and TV.

As Coles moves forward, he plans to release another novel featuring his beloved character, Canon Clement, later this year alongside a children's book. In spite of his busy life and past ambitions, he describes a newfound contentment: “I used to be ambitious, but that’s burned away now, and I’m quite content with my life.”

Reverend Richard Coles continues to embody resilience and creativity, whether in his writing, public appearances, or personal reflections. As he embraces a full schedule ahead, another chapter in his vibrant life story unfolds, showcasing not only the allure of a multifaceted persona but also the depth that comes from navigating life's many challenges.

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Source: Noah Wire Services