Sir Tom Jones has stated that his departure from "The Voice" after 13 years was not his decision, accusing ITV of "firing" him due to financial difficulties related to insurance. Jones, 86, insisted he wished to remain on the show and was only recently informed of ITV's choice.
"To be clear, I did not want to leave The Voice as I love the show and really appreciate the audience. ITV made this decision — obviously a while ago, and I was told just recently," Jones wrote in a statement shared on social media. He added that the "reason given is because of a financial difficulty with insurance."
He also noted that ITV's public statements suggesting a desire to "refresh" the show and create a new coaching lineup, leaving no place for him, contrasted with the reasons he was given. Jones mentioned being offered a significantly reduced role, which he found unappealing.
Reports emerged earlier this week that "The Voice" was undergoing a major shakeup for its 2027 season. The current coaching panel includes Jones, Kelly Rowland, will.i.am, and the duo Tom Fletcher and Danny Jones from McFly. Producers are reportedly in discussions to bring in Cheryl and Aitch, with Rowland and will.i.am expected to retain their seats. This potential new lineup would exclude Jones and the McFly duo.
There are also suggestions that Alesha Dixon and Stacey Solomon might be considered to replace host Emma Willis, who is moving to the BBC's "Strictly Come Dancing."
Cheryl, a former "X Factor" judge, has not appeared on primetime television in six years. Her last television role was as a dance captain on the BBC's "The Greatest Dancer" in 2020. Reports indicate she has been in talks with "The Voice" producers for months. Filming for the new series is scheduled to begin on September 11 in Manchester.