TOM JONES SAYS HE WAS ‘FIRED’ FROM THE VOICE UK AS ITV UNVEILS MAJOR NEW LINE-UP

Sir Tom Jones has claimed he was “fired” from The Voice UK after more than a decade as one of the show’s most recognisable coaches.

The Welsh music legend, 86, said he did not want to leave the ITV singing competition and was disappointed by the way his departure was handled.

Jones has been part of The Voice UK since the show first launched in 2012, appearing in almost every series and becoming closely associated with its famous red chairs.

Speaking about his departure, Jones said ITV told him there were financial difficulties involving insurance.

He also claimed he was offered a significantly reduced role rather than continuing as a full-time coach.

According to Jones, the proposed arrangement would have involved him making brief appearances rather than remaining fully involved in the competition.

The singer said he was not happy with the idea and made clear that he wanted to continue in his coaching role.

“I did not want to leave,” Jones said, describing the decision as being fired from the programme.

ITV UNVEILS NEW COACHING LINE-UP

ITV subsequently announced a major change to The Voice UK ahead of Series 15, which is scheduled to air in 2027.

The new coaching panel will feature Cheryl, Aitch, Kelly Rowland and will.i.am.

Cheryl and Aitch will make their debuts as coaches, while Kelly Rowland will return for a second series alongside longtime coach will.i.am.

The broadcaster also announced a new presenting team, with Alesha Dixon and Stacey Solomon taking over hosting duties.

ITV thanked Tom Jones for his years on the programme, describing his contribution as a major part of the show’s history.

The broadcaster also thanked Emma Willis, Tom Fletcher and Danny Jones for their work on the series.

A MAJOR CHANGE AFTER 13 SEASONS

Jones’ departure marks a significant change for a programme where he has been a familiar face since its first season.

His time on the show has included memorable performances, emotional auditions and the familiar moment when he turns his red chair toward a singer he wants on his team.

But for the next series, viewers will see an entirely different coaching line-up apart from will.i.am and Kelly Rowland.

ITV said the new panel would bring a fresh combination of musical experience and personalities as the programme searches for Britain’s next generation of singers.

For Jones, however, the change appears to have come sooner than he expected.

The singer’s comments suggest that he had hoped to remain a full-time part of The Voice UK, rather than leave the programme after so many years.

ITV has thanked him publicly for his contribution, while Jones has made clear that leaving was not his choice.

The new series is expected to arrive in 2027, with Cheryl, Aitch, Kelly Rowland and will.i.am occupying the famous red chairs.