THE VOICE UK INTRODUCES SHOCK ‘LOCKDOWN’ TWIST AFTER TOM JONES EXIT — HERE’S WHAT’S CHANGING

THE VOICE UK IS GETTING A MAJOR MAKEOVER — AND FANS ARE ABOUT TO SEE A COMPLETELY NEW TWIST

Fans of The Voice UK are facing a major change when the hit ITV singing competition returns for its next series, with bosses reportedly introducing a dramatic new feature called the “Lockdown Button.”

The new twist comes as the show undergoes one of its biggest shake-ups yet, following the departure of longtime coach Sir Tom Jones and several other familiar faces.

According to reports, the new Lockdown Button will replace the recently introduced Rewind Button during the Blind Auditions.

SO, HOW DOES THE NEW “LOCKDOWN” BUTTON WORK?

The reported feature comes into play when a contestant manages to turn all four coaches’ chairs.

Under the new format, one of the coaches could press the Lockdown Button and immediately secure the contestant for their team.

That would mean the singer would no longer necessarily get the familiar opportunity to listen to all four coaches’ pitches before deciding which team they wanted to join.

Instead, the coaches could have the power to make that decision instantly.

The change could create a completely different kind of suspense during the Blind Auditions, with viewers waiting to see whether one of the coaches will use the button after a four-chair turn.

The Rewind Button, which was introduced during the current series, is reportedly being dropped altogether.

THE TWIST COMES AFTER A HUGE COACHING SHAKE-UP

The format change arrives at the same time as a major overhaul of the show’s lineup.

ITV has officially confirmed that Aitch and Cheryl will join returning coach Kelly Rowland and longtime coach will.i.am for Series 15.

Meanwhile, Alesha Dixon and Stacey Solomon are set to take over hosting duties from Emma Willis.

Tom Fletcher and Danny Jones are also leaving the coaching panel.

But the biggest surprise for many viewers has been the departure of Sir Tom Jones, who had been one of the show’s defining coaches since its early years.

 TOM JONES SPEAKS OUT

The 86-year-old music legend said publicly that he did not want to leave the programme and claimed that ITV had made the decision.

Tom said he had been told the reason involved financial difficulties surrounding insurance, while ITV has described the changes as part of a refresh of the show.

He also said he had been offered a reduced role rather than returning as a full-time coach.

A spokesperson for The Voice UK said the programme had loved working with Sir Tom and that discussions were continuing about his possible involvement in the next series.

ITV separately thanked Tom for his years on the programme and the many memorable moments he had given viewers and contestants.

 A VERY DIFFERENT “THE VOICE UK”

With a new coaching panel, two new hosts and now a reported replacement for the Rewind Button, the next series is shaping up to look very different from the show fans have known for years.

Series 15 of The Voice UK is scheduled to air in 2027.

And with the new Lockdown Button potentially changing what happens after a four-chair turn, one question will be waiting for fans:

Will contestants still have the final say when every coach wants them?