I’m A Celebrity fans have admitted they were “wrong” about one campmate, who has now been tipped to go all the way and take the crown as king of the jungle.
Reverend Richard Coles has became a firm favourite following recent episodes, after his late arrival in camp alongside former Love Island star Maura Higgins. The pair struck up an unlikely affectionate relationship from their time in the Jungle Junkyard.
Despite some fans initially expressing lukewarm feelings towards the ex-chart topper, they’re now firmly rooting for Rev Coles, with a slew vouching for him as their top contender for the crown as reported in the Mirror.
Viewers took to Twitter to praise the Church of England minister admitted they had got his character wrong at the start and appreciate his comedic flare and kind nature towards other celebs.
One viewer enthused: “Was a bit meh when I saw the reverend was going into the jungle as I didn’t know him at all but I was sooooo wrong. He’s pure precious. Oti too.”
Another agreed, chiming in: “Rev Richard Coles , is just the purest soul,” and another added: “So many people to like in the jungle this year but I think Danny should be the king but rev Richard is just the kindest, loveliest human being. He seems to have time for everyone without judging them. Dean and Jane are the most annoying!”
Many viewers have hailed the Reverend as their favourite, with one fan exclaiming: “I’m so glad people are getting so see how lovely reverend richard is,, he doesn’t get anywhere near enough recognition.”
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Another enthused: “Superheroes don’t always wear capes. Richard Coles is such a wonderful bloke,” and another viewer had already spotted his comedic flair, saying: “I’ve always loved the Reverend Richard Coles and he’s already hilarious in the Jungle!”
While some may have initially perceived him as a newcomer to the celebrity scene, it wasn’t long before fans were reminded of his brush with fame in the eighties.
TikTok influencer Brooke Hewer enlightened her substantial following of 551k by divulging her own “revelation.” Upon seeing him on a recent show, she knew his face but couldnt pinpoint where from.
After delving into his past, she discovered that he was half of the 80s pop sensation The Communards. She played their legendary song Don’t Leave Me This Way, much to her audience’s surprise.
Brooke expressed her astonishment, pondering aloud, “Is that common knowledge, or have I just been living under a rock?” concluding, “Stop it, he’s an icon.”
The famous Reverend Richard gained stardom with Jimmy Somerville during the 80s as part of The Communards and enjoyed three UK top 10 hits, with Don’t Leave Me This Way topping the charts in 1986.
Following his music career, Richard pursued theology at King’s College London and later trained for priesthood in West Yorkshire, joining the church in 2005.
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