Sir Tom Jones has revealed he was fired from The Voice UK, and the currently airing 14th season appears to be his final appearance on the judging/coaching panel. According to a social media post, Jones claims ITV’s reasoning for his dismissal was due to “a financial difficulty with insurance” and a desire to revamp the show’s lineup.
“To be clear, I did not want to leave The Voice as l love the show and really appreciate the audience,” he wrote. “ITV made this decision — obviously a while ago, and I was told just recently.” He claimed that ITV offered him a much smaller role on the show. “I would make an appearance but without being actually involved from the start, and I’m not thrilled about that,” he said. Details are unclear whether he has accepted the alleged offer to appear on the show in a reduced capacity. (A rep for ITV did not immediately reply to a request for comment.)
“The only thing I know right now, is that there’s never a good time to fire an 86-year-old who’s still pretty good at his job.”
Olly Murs, who sat on the judging panel with Jones for several seasons, expressed his support for his former colleague. “Love ya TJ,” he commented. “I know how much that show means to you mate. Absolute legend and one of the very best to ever sit in that chair.” Will.i.am, who also appeared alongside the singer and on every season of The Voice UK, responded to his post with nearly 100 crying emojis.
The first season of The Voice UK premiered in 2012. Jones was an original member of the judging/coaching panel from the series’ start, appearing on nearly every season of show except for the fifth. Boy George took over on his duties that year, and Jones returned for the following season. Over his years as a coach, he mentored three winners, including Leanne Mitchell (season one), Ruti Olajugbagbe (season seven), Anthonia Edwards (season 11).
The current season’s panel features Jones, Kelly Rowland, will.i.am, and Tom Fletcher and Danny Jones of the band McFly.
Jones, 86, is best known for his songs “It’s Not Unusual” and “What’s New Pussycat?” which were released in 1965. The Welshman won the Grammy for Best New Artist at the 1966 ceremony and has released over 40 albums across his six-decade long career. He released his most recent album, Surrounded by Time, in 2021.