“BRING TOM JONES BACK!” — MORE THAN 73,000 FANS DEMAND A RETURN TO THE VOICE UK

The campaign to reinstate Sir Tom Jones is gathering momentum, with fellow coach will.i.am backing the petition and supporters insisting the legendary singer still belongs in the famous red chair. But will ITV reconsider its decision?

Fans of The Voice UK are making their feelings unmistakably clear: they are not ready to say goodbye to Sir Tom Jones.

A petition launched by superfan Aaron Howlett has attracted more than 73,000 verified signatures, calling on ITV to bring the 86-year-old music icon back as a full-time coach.

The campaign has received support from across the world, with fans sharing personal stories about what Tom’s presence on the show means to them.

And the movement has received a major boost from someone who knows him well — fellow coach will.i.am.

“I DID NOT WANT TO LEAVE”

The controversy began in September 2026, when Tom publicly revealed that he would no longer serve as a full-time coach on the programme’s upcoming 2027 series.

In a candid statement, the Welsh singer said he loved the show and appreciated its audience, making clear that leaving had not been his choice.

Tom also said ITV had cited difficulties involving insurance costs as the reason for the decision. He added that he had been offered a much-reduced role involving appearances rather than full participation, an arrangement he was unhappy with.

His comments surprised many longtime viewers, who had watched him mentor aspiring singers since the programme launched in 2012.

WILL.I.AM JOINS THE CAMPAIGN

One of the most significant moments for supporters came when will.i.am shared the petition online, helping bring the campaign to an even wider audience.

Petition creator Aaron Howlett has spoken about his admiration for Tom, describing him as a remarkable performer whose experience and personality make him an important part of the competition.

For many supporters, Tom is more than a familiar face in a red chair. They value his musical knowledge, his interactions with contestants and the unmistakable voice that has entertained audiences for decades.

Some petition supporters have even said they may stop watching the programme if he does not return.

ITV PLANS A NEW ERA FOR THE SHOW

ITV has confirmed a major refresh for the next series of The Voice UK, with Cheryl and Aitch joining the coaching panel alongside returning coaches Kelly Rowland and will.i.am.

Stacey Solomon and Alesha Dixon are set to present the 2027 series.

The broadcaster has thanked Tom for his contribution over the years, praising the unforgettable moments he helped create for viewers and contestants.

Although the petition continues to attract signatures, ITV has not announced that it will reverse the decision or reinstate Tom as a full-time coach.

COULD THE FANS CHANGE ANYTHING?

The campaign demonstrates how strongly audiences can connect with a television personality who has been part of a programme for many years.

Tom has helped mentor numerous singers and has remained a familiar presence through different generations of contestants, coaches and presenters.

Whether the growing petition will influence ITV’s plans remains uncertain. A large number of signatures demonstrates substantial public support, but it does not guarantee that the broadcaster will change its line-up.

For now, fans are continuing to make their voices heard — hoping that the man behind so many memorable moments might yet return to the red chair.

Would you watch The Voice UK without Sir Tom Jones, or should ITV bring him back?