“I’M NOT THRILLED ABOUT THAT” — SIR TOM JONES REPORTEDLY TURNS DOWN A RETURN TO THE VOICE UK

After 13 years as one of the show’s most recognizable coaches, the music legend is reportedly refusing a reduced role on the singing competition. Fans who hoped to see him back in the red chair may be facing a very different future.

Sir Tom Jones is reportedly drawing a firm line after his departure from The Voice UK, declining an offer to return for the show’s upcoming series in a limited guest capacity.

According to The Sun, published October 15, 2026, producers had hoped to bring the legendary Welsh singer back as a “super guest judge” for the next series. However, sources told the publication that Jones had turned down the proposal, leaving fans wondering whether his time on the program has truly come to an end.

WHY TOM JONES DIDN’T WANT A REDUCED ROLE

The reported decision follows a public disagreement over his departure from the ITV singing competition.

In September, Jones said he had not wanted to leave the show and claimed ITV had made the decision to end his full-time coaching role. He also said the broadcaster cited financial difficulties involving insurance and offered him a significantly reduced position instead.

“I did not want to leave The Voice as I love the show and really appreciate the audience,” he wrote in a statement shared on Instagram.

Jones also made clear that he was unhappy with the proposed arrangement, explaining that he would appear occasionally without being involved from the beginning of the competition.

ITV, meanwhile, thanked the singer for his contribution and confirmed that he would not return as a full-time coach for the next series, while initially leaving the door open to further involvement.

A NEW ERA FOR THE VOICE UK

Jones has been associated with The Voice since its debut in 2012, coaching talented singers and helping three contestants win their respective series.

His departure marks a major change for longtime viewers who have come to associate his experience, unmistakable voice and warm personality with the red coaching chair.

The upcoming series is expected to feature a refreshed lineup, including Cheryl and Aitch alongside returning coaches Kelly Rowland and will.i.am. Presenters Alesha Dixon and Stacey Solomon are also set to take over hosting duties.

Although ITV has not publicly confirmed every detail of the reported guest-role negotiations, the news has reignited discussion about how the program is moving forward without one of its best-known personalities.

For many fans, the biggest question is not who will occupy the next red chair, but whether the show will ever feel quite the same without Sir Tom Jones.

❤️ What do you think? Should The Voice UK have kept Sir Tom Jones as a coach, or is it time for a new generation of stars?

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