THE VOICE UK INTRODUCES SHOCK “LOCKDOWN” TWIST AFTER TOM JONES EXIT — FAMILIAR AUDITION RULE REPORTEDLY SCRAPPED

The Voice UK is heading into its next era with a major format change, as bosses reportedly introduce a brand-new “Lockdown” button that could completely change what happens when contestants turn all four famous red chairs.

The reported shake-up comes as the ITV singing competition prepares for Series 15, following a major overhaul of its coaching and presenting line-up — including the departure of longtime coach Sir Tom Jones.

According to reports, producers have scrapped the familiar Rewind button and replaced it with the new Lockdown twist.

A NEW “LOCKDOWN” BUTTON

Under the reported new format, the Lockdown button would only come into play when a contestant manages to turn all four coaches during the Blind Auditions.

Normally, a four-chair turn gives the successful singer the opportunity to hear the coaches make their pitches before deciding which team they want to join.

The reported Lockdown twist could change that.

Instead of allowing the contestant to make the final choice, one coach would reportedly be able to press the new button and immediately secure the singer for their team.

That would remove one of the most familiar moments of the Blind Auditions — the battle between coaches trying to convince a highly sought-after contestant to choose them.

The reported change was first detailed by The Sun, which described the move as a major shake-up to the show’s audition format.

TOM JONES’ EXIT MARKS A NEW ERA

The format change comes at the same time as one of the biggest line-up changes in the show’s history.

Sir Tom Jones, 86, is no longer part of the full-time coaching line-up for the upcoming series after years as one of the programme’s most recognisable faces.

Tom previously said that he did not want to leave the show, explaining that ITV had made the decision.

ITV, meanwhile, has described the upcoming series as a new chapter and thanked the Welsh music legend for his years on the programme.

The broadcaster officially confirmed its new Series 15 line-up on September 11.

CHERYL AND AITCH JOIN THE RED CHAIRS

Taking their places among the coaches for Series 15 will be Cheryl and rapper Aitch, both making their debuts on the main coaching panel.

They will join returning coach Kelly Rowland, who is back for her second series, and longtime coach will.i.am.

ITV said the new panel will search for the UK’s next major vocal talent when the competition returns.

The broadcaster also thanked Tom Jones, as well as departing coaches Tom Fletcher and Danny Jones, for their contributions to the programme.

THE HOSTING TEAM IS CHANGING TOO

The changes do not stop at the famous red chairs.

Alesha Dixon and Stacey Solomon have been confirmed as the new hosts for Series 15.

They replace the previous presenting arrangement involving Emma Willis, Tom Fletcher and Danny Jones.

ITV confirmed that Series 15 will air in 2027, meaning viewers will have to wait until next year to see the new coaching line-up and reported format changes in action.

WHAT WILL THE LOCKDOWN TWIST MEAN FOR CONTESTANTS?

The biggest question is how singers will react if they earn a four-chair turn under the new rules.

Previously, getting all four coaches to turn was one of the most exciting moments of the Blind Auditions because the contestant suddenly had four potential teams to choose from.

Under the reported Lockdown system, however, that decision could potentially be taken out of the singer’s hands.

A coach pressing the button could effectively end the contest between the four coaches before the contestant has heard all of their pitches.

That could make four-chair turns even more unpredictable — and potentially change how coaches compete for the strongest voices.

A VERY DIFFERENT VOICE UK

The reported Lockdown twist is arriving alongside a completely refreshed cast, making Series 15 very different from the version viewers have become accustomed to.

Tom Jones’ absence will be particularly noticeable after his long association with the programme, while Cheryl and Aitch will bring new personalities to the red chairs.

Kelly Rowland’s return and will.i.am’s continued presence will provide some continuity as the show moves into its next chapter.

For now, ITV has officially confirmed the new cast and hosts, while details of the reported Lockdown button have come from entertainment reporting rather than a detailed ITV format announcement.

But if the new twist goes ahead as reported, The Voice UK could look very different the next time those famous red chairs begin to turn.