TOM JONES AND THE VOICE UK — THE SHOCK EXIT, FAN BACKLASH AND THE BIG CHANGE COMING IN 2027

Sir Tom Jones has spent years sitting in one of the most recognisable red chairs on British television.

But when The Voice UK returns for its 15th series in 2027, viewers are set to see a very different show.

ITV has confirmed that the legendary Welsh singer will no longer be a full-time coach, bringing an end to another major chapter in his long association with the programme.

At the same time, the show is preparing a major format change that could alter one of its most familiar moments — what happens when a singer turns all four coaches’ chairs.

 TOM JONES’ LONG JOURNEY WITH THE VOICE

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

He initially appeared alongside Will.i.am, Jessie J and Danny O’Donoghue, helping establish the programme’s early identity.

Although he left the show in 2016, Jones returned for the sixth series and went on to become one of its longest-serving and most recognisable coaches.

Over the years, audiences became familiar with his calm presence, musical knowledge and distinctive Welsh humour.

For many viewers, seeing Tom in the red chair had become part of the identity of The Voice UK.

THEN CAME THE SHOCK ANNOUNCEMENT

In September 2026, ITV announced an entirely new line-up for series 15.

The broadcaster confirmed that Cheryl and rapper Aitch would join returning coaches Kelly Rowland and Will.i.am.

Tom Jones, Danny Jones and Tom Fletcher would all leave the coaching panel.

ITV thanked Sir Tom for what it described as his many years on the programme and the “countless incredible and unforgettable moments” he had given the show.

The next series is scheduled to air in 2027.

But Tom’s own account of the situation was more complicated.

TOM JONES SAYS HE DID NOT WANT TO LEAVE

Following the announcement, Tom addressed his departure publicly.

The 86-year-old singer said he did not want to leave the programme and claimed ITV had made the decision.

He said he had been told the reason involved a financial difficulty with insurance.

Tom also said ITV had offered him a much smaller role in the programme, but that he was unhappy with the proposal.

He expressed his disappointment at being removed from the full-time coaching line-up after so many years on the show.