Sir Tom Jones’ ᴀssociation with The Voice UK began in 2012 and lasted, with one interruption, until the present series. Over that period he became one of the programme’s most recognisable coaches, known for straightforward feedback and for the occasional performance that reminded viewers of his six-decade recording career. Hits such as “It’s Not Unusual,” “What’s New Pussycat?,” “Delilah,” “Green, Green Grᴀss of Home” and later tracks including “Sєx Bomb” formed the backdrop to his television work. The show introduced him to a new generation of viewers and gave him a regular platform on which to share experience with aspiring singers.
His departure was announced in September 2026 as part of a broader refresh. ITV confirmed that he would not return as a full-time coach for the 2027 series and thanked him for his contribution. Tom responded on Instagram by stating that he had not wanted to leave, that the decision had been taken earlier and communicated recently, and that the reason given involved a financial difficulty with insurance. He said he had been offered a much-reduced role involving appearances without full involvement from the start and that he was not thrilled about it. He added that there is never a good time to fire an 86-year-old who is still pretty good at his job.
In mid-October, reporting indicated that he had declined the guest-judge arrangement that had been discussed. A source told The Sun that negotiations had become messy, that Tom and his team were furious about the way matters had played out, and that ITV’s hope of securing his return in some capacity had not been realised. The production is instead reported to be focusing on the new coaching panel of Will.i.am, Kelly Rowland, Cheryl and Aitch, together with the possibility of Michelle Williams appearing alongside Kelly Rowland during battle rounds.
The episode illustrates the tension that can arise when a long-running television format seeks to renew itself. Tom’s longevity on the show made him a point of continuity; his removal, and the subsequent refusal of a limited role, removes that continuity. At the same time, his wider career does not depend on the programme. He continues to perform and to be recognised for a body of work that predates The Voice UK by decades. The television role was significant, but it was one chapter among many.
ITV has not issued a detailed response to the latest report. Its earlier statements emphasised appreciation and left open the possibility of future collaboration, though current reporting suggests no such collaboration is planned for the coming series. Fan reaction, including a peтιтion that gathered tens of thousands of signatures, has shown that a portion of the audience valued his presence highly. Other viewers may adapt more readily to the new panel. The current series still features Tom as a coach, so audiences will see him complete this run before the change takes full effect.
What remains is a clear public record of his position: he did not wish to leave, he was dissatisfied with the reduced role offered, and, according to the most recent accounts, he has declined to return even in that limited capacity. For The Voice UK, the 2027 series will test whether the new combination of coaches and hosts can sustain the programme’s audience. For Sir Tom Jones, the chapter on the show appears, on the available evidence, to have closed. His contribution to it is acknowledged by the broadcaster; his own account of how the ending occurred is on record. The rest of his career continues on its own terms.
