Carol Vorderman has voiced her strong disapproval of ITV's decision to remove 86-year-old singer Tom Jones from the coaching panel of The Voice. Vorderman, 65, expressed her support for Jones on social media, stating it was a 'terrible decision' and that Jones remains an "incredible and A LEGEND."

Sir Tom himself confirmed he did not wish to leave the show. In a statement shared on Instagram and Facebook, he explained that ITV made the decision due to "financial difficulty" concerning insurance. He noted that he was informed of the decision recently, despite it being made some time ago. Jones added that ITV offered him a significantly reduced role, which he was not enthusiastic about, and expressed his disappointment at being let go.

"The reason given is because of a financial difficulty with insurance," Jones wrote. "They now say in the press they wanted to 'refresh' the show, and with a new coaching line-up there wouldn't be a chair for me."

Other public figures have also shown support for Jones. Olly Murs, who previously coached on The Voice, commented, "Love ya TJ. I know how much that show means to you mate. Absolute legend and one of the very best to ever sit in that chair." Anne Marie and Leann Rimes also shared messages of support.

Insiders report that ITV is considering a shake-up of the coaching panel for the 2027 series, with producers reportedly in talks to replace Jones, Tom Fletcher, and Danny Jones with Cheryl and rapper Aitch. Kelly Rowland and will.i.am are understood to be remaining on the panel.

An ITV spokesperson stated, "We have loved working with Sir Tom Jones over the past nine years on The Voice UK. While he will no longer be a full-time coach on series 15, we continue to talk to Sir Tom and his team about his involvement in the next series."

This is not the first time Jones has been dropped from the show. He was also removed by the BBC in 2015, a decision he publicly criticized at the time. When The Voice moved to ITV in 2017, Jones was reinstated as a judge. He has been a part of the show for 13 years, with its current 14th series facing scheduling delays. It remains unconfirmed if he will appear in the upcoming live finale.

Fans have expressed their disappointment online, with many stating they will not watch the show without Jones. Vorderman echoed these sentiments, writing, "I saw you perform at Car Fest and you remain simply incredible and A LEGEND. You ARE the voice."