TOM JONES SPEAKS OUT AFTER LEAVING THE VOICE UK — WILL.I.AM BACKS CAMPAIGN TO BRING HIM BACK

Sir Tom Jones has spoken publicly about his departure from The Voice UK, saying he did not want to leave the show after years as one of its most recognisable coaches.

The 86-year-old Welsh music legend has been part of The Voice UK since its launch in 2012, apart from a brief break in 2016.

Now, as ITV prepares for a major shake-up ahead of the show’s 2027 series, Tom will no longer be a full-time coach — a decision that has sparked an emotional reaction from fans and even from his fellow coach Will.i.am.

“I DIDN’T WANT TO LEAVE”

Tom Jones said in a social-media statement that he was effectively being removed from his regular coaching role and that the decision was not his choice.

He said he “loves the show” and explained that ITV had offered him a significantly reduced role rather than keeping him involved throughout the series.

Tom also said the reason initially given to him involved financial difficulties relating to insurance, while ITV later publicly described the changes as part of a decision to refresh the programme.

The singer made clear that he was unhappy with the proposed reduced role.

ITV, however, has said that although Tom will no longer be a full-time coach on series 15, the broadcaster remains in discussions with him and his team about possible involvement in the next series.

That means his future connection with the programme has not been completely ruled out.

TOM WAS THERE FROM THE BEGINNING

Tom was one of the original coaches when The Voice UK premiered in 2012.

Over the years, he became closely associated with the show’s famous red chairs, mentoring singers and working alongside a long list of fellow coaches.

During his time on the programme, Tom coached several successful contestants and has been credited with helping three of the show’s winners:

Leanne Mitchell, Ruti Olajugbagbe and Anthonia Edwards.

His departure therefore marks a significant change for a programme that has featured him across much of its history.

 WILL.I.AM JOINS FANS CALLING FOR TOM’S RETURN

The reaction from viewers has quickly grown into a campaign.

Superfan Aaron Howlett, from Kingston-upon-Hull, launched a petition on September 8 calling for ITV to reinstate Tom Jones.

The campaign attracted more than 70,000 verified signatures by October 3, according to its Change.org page.

But one of the biggest developments came when Will.i.am publicly shared the petition.

The two musicians have worked together on The Voice UK for years, making Will.i.am’s support particularly notable.

The petition argues that Tom’s experience and relationship with contestants have made him an important part of the programme.

However, the petition represents the views of its supporters and does not indicate that ITV has agreed to reverse its decision.

 A COMPLETELY NEW COACHING LINE-UP

ITV has already announced a major new line-up for series 15.

Kelly Rowland and Will.i.am will return as coaches, while Cheryl and rapper Aitch will join them.

The programme will also have two new presenters, with Alesha Dixon and Stacey Solomon taking over hosting duties.

Tom Jones, meanwhile, will not be a full-time coach.

ITV publicly thanked him for his years on the programme, praising the “incredible and unforgettable moments” he gave to both audiences and contestants.

 COULD TOM STILL RETURN?

For now, there is no confirmed announcement that Tom Jones will return as a full-time coach.

However, ITV has specifically said it is still discussing possible involvement with Tom and his team.

That leaves open the possibility of an appearance or another role, although the broadcaster has not confirmed exactly what that involvement might look like.

Tom’s fans are now waiting to see whether the campaign — backed publicly by Will.i.am — will have any effect on ITV’s plans.

 SIX DECADES OF MUSIC — AND A NEW CHAPTER

Away from television, Tom Jones remains active as a performer.

His career has stretched for more than six decades, producing global hits including “It’s Not Unusual,” “What’s New Pussycat?” and “Green Green Grass of Home.”

He was knighted in 2006 for his services to music and continues to perform live. A 2026 concert schedule also has him performing internationally.

For now, though, the spotlight is firmly on his future with The Voice UK.

After years sitting in one of the show’s famous red chairs, Tom Jones has made clear that he did not want to simply walk away.

And with thousands of fans — alongside fellow coach Will.i.am — now calling for his return, the story may not be over yet.