“THE RED CHAIR WON’T BE THE SAME WITHOUT HIM” — TOM JONES SPEAKS OUT AFTER SHOCK ‘THE VOICE UK’ EXIT AS FANS DEMAND HIS RETURN
“THE RED CHAIR WON’T BE THE SAME WITHOUT HIM” — TOM JONES SPEAKS OUT AFTER SHOCK ‘THE VOICE UK’ EXIT AS FANS DEMAND HIS RETURN
Sir Tom Jones says he never wanted to leave the singing competition he helped define. After more than a decade as one of its most recognisable coaches, the music legend’s departure has sparked an emotional reaction from fans and fellow performers.
For years, Sir Tom Jones was one of the familiar faces that made The Voice UK feel like The Voice UK. His unmistakable voice, quick wit and experience helped make him a favourite among viewers.
Now, the 86-year-old Welsh singer is preparing to leave his full-time coaching role — and he has made it clear that the decision was not his.
In September 2026, Jones publicly stated that ITV had decided to remove him from the coaching panel ahead of the programme’s next series. He said he loved the show and appreciated its audience, adding that he had not wanted to leave.
The announcement has prompted an outpouring of support from viewers who believe his presence was an important part of the competition’s identity.
“I did not want to leave”
In a statement shared on Instagram, Jones said ITV had made the decision some time earlier but had informed him only recently.
He explained that the broadcaster had cited financial difficulties relating to insurance and had also discussed refreshing the show’s coaching line-up.
According to Jones, he was offered a substantially reduced role that would have involved making an appearance without participating as a coach from the beginning. He said he was not happy with that arrangement.
His comments revealed the disappointment behind what might otherwise have appeared to be a routine television cast change.
For a performer who has spent decades entertaining audiences around the world, the departure represents the end of an important chapter in his television career — one he had hoped would continue.
Fans question the decision
Following the announcement, viewers took to social media to express their frustration and call for Jones to return.
Some fans argued that his experience and personality were central to the programme, while others questioned whether the show could maintain the same appeal without him.
The reaction has continued as ITV introduces a broader overhaul of the competition. The traditional red chair associated with Jones has become a symbol of what supporters feel the programme is losing.
A petition calling for his return has also received attention, reflecting the strength of feeling among some viewers.
However, the online response does not necessarily represent the views of every audience member, and ITV has not announced plans to reverse its decision.
A major shake-up at The Voice UK
Jones is not the only familiar face leaving the programme.
ITV has announced a new coaching line-up for the next series, with Cheryl and rapper Aitch joining returning coaches will.i.am and Kelly Rowland. Danny Jones and Tom Fletcher of McFly are also departing the panel.
Presenters Alesha Dixon and Stacey Solomon are set to take over hosting duties from Emma Willis.
The changes mark a significant reset for the long-running singing competition as it prepares for its 2027 series.
ITV has praised Jones for his contribution to the programme. A spokesperson said the broadcaster had loved working with him and confirmed that discussions with the singer and his team about possible future involvement had continued.
That statement leaves open the possibility of a different role, but it does not mean a return as a full-time coach has been agreed.
Fellow singers express their sadness
Jones’s departure has also prompted a reaction from fellow artists.
Australian singer Natalie Imbruglia, who toured with him earlier in 2026, said she was sad about the news and did not understand the decision.
Her response added to the public discussion surrounding ITV’s choice and highlighted the respect Jones continues to receive from people in the music industry.
For many supporters, his value on the programme extended beyond his fame. His decades of experience gave him a distinctive perspective when guiding aspiring singers, while his warmth and humour helped make the coaching panel memorable.
A legacy that goes beyond one television show
Jones joined The Voice UK when it launched in 2012 and became one of its best-known coaches. Across his time on the programme, he helped mentor winning contestants and shared his musical knowledge with performers at the beginning of their careers.
His influence reaches far beyond television. With a career spanning decades and classic hits including “It’s Not Unusual” and “What’s New Pussycat?”, he remains one of Britain’s most recognisable musical performers.
Whatever happens next with the programme, his place in its history is secure.
For fans who have watched him turn his chair, encourage nervous contestants and celebrate extraordinary performances, the prospect of a new coaching panel feels like the end of an era.
The show is moving forward with a new line-up, but many viewers are making one thing clear: they are not ready to say goodbye to Sir Tom Jones.
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