Rev Richard Coles Opens Up About Weight Gain and Fat Jabs
In an exclusive revelation, Reverend Richard Coles, the 64-year-old former vicar and television personality, has shared the poignant trigger behind his recent weight gain before turning to weight loss injections. Coles, known for his number one hit Don't Leave Me This Way and appearances on shows like Strictly Come Dancing and I'm a Celebrity, confessed that the loss of his dog led to a sedentary lifestyle, contributing to his weight increase.
Turning to Mounjaro for Weight Management
Coles explained that after his dog passed away, he stopped his daily walks, which caused him to gain weight significantly. He stated, "I was getting a tad plump. And my dog died so I didn't have to go out for a walk every day. I was getting fat." To address this, he began using Mounjaro, a type of weight loss jab, which he describes as "really helpful." Since starting the treatment, Coles has lost approximately 15% of his body weight, celebrating this achievement around his 64th birthday. He added, "It's so good not having to go to the gym. I think I've lost about 15% of my body weight. I was getting older, and because I like food and I like wine… go figure!"
Future Plans: A New Dog and Family Disagreements
Looking ahead, Coles aims to transition off Mounjaro and welcome a new dog into his life. However, this plan has faced opposition from his partner, actor Dickie Cant, 62, whom he met on a dating app in 2022. Coles revealed, "Coming off the Mounjaro and getting a dog is my aim. Although Dickie vetoed getting a corgi, and in fact would rather a cat." This highlights the personal challenges he navigates in his post-weight loss journey.
Celebrating a New Children's Book Release
Amidst these personal developments, Coles is also marking the release of his first children's book, A Heist Before Bedtime, published on 9th April 2026. The book features 12 true crime stories tailored for young readers, showcasing Coles' versatility as an author. When asked about a hypothetical heist, he humorously admitted, "If I were to organise a heist, I'd go for the Crown Jewels. I like them and I think the imperial state crown would rather suit me. I think I would cut a bit of a dash."
Reflections on a Diverse Career and Church Leadership
Coles' career spans music, television, and writing, with 12 books to his name, including the bestselling The Madness of Grief, written after the death of his husband in 2019. He also commented on recent church appointments, expressing support for Dame Sarah Mullally as the first female Archbishop of Canterbury. Coles noted, "I'm really glad it's Sarah who is sitting on the Throne of Augustine... I think she's a fantastic bishop and she'll make a fantastic archbishop." He advocated for greater gender equality in clergy roles, suggesting women make excellent leaders.
Thoughts on Television and Personal Reinvention
On lighter notes, Coles shared his views on television hosting, proposing comedian Alan Carr as a potential new host for Strictly Come Dancing. Reflecting on his own stint on the show in 2017, where he was eliminated early, he joked, "One thing I learned simultaneously with 10 million other people is that I am to dance what a fried egg is to acrobatics. I just couldn't do it." Embracing his multifaceted life, Coles laughed about being compared to Madonna for his constant reinvention.
A Heist Before Bedtime by Reverend Richard Coles is available now from Wren & Rook, with a retail price of £14.99.
