Sir Tom Jones Declines 'Super Guest Judge' Role on The Voice UK After Axing

Sir Tom Jones, 86, has reportedly turned down an offer from The Voice UK to return as a "super guest judge" following his dismissal from the show. Jones was axed as a judge after 13 years, with the program opting to refresh its lineup by bringing in Cheryl and Aitch for the upcoming 15th series.

Last month, Jones expressed his displeasure with the decision, stating he was not "thrilled" by the proposal of a "much-reduced" guest role. Despite The Voice UK's initial claims that discussions were ongoing with Jones and his team, sources now indicate that the singer will not be making a cameo appearance. A source told The Sun that "It all got pretty messy and Tom and his team were furious about how things played out. ITV had hoped he would return in some capacity, but it isn’t happening."

While Jones is out of the picture, show executives are reportedly aiming to attract viewers by orchestrating a mini reunion of the group Destiny's Child. Plans are allegedly underway to bring Kelly Rowland's bandmate Michelle Williams from the U.S. to assist Rowland during the battle stages. "They are now hoping the big pull, along with the return of Cheryl, will be a mini reunion for Destiny’s Child," an insider added.

Representatives for Sir Tom Jones and ITV have been contacted for comment by the Daily Mail. Previously, Jones stated on Instagram that he "did not want to leave The Voice" and that ITV made the decision, citing "financial difficulty with insurance." He also mentioned the press reports of a show "refresh" and that a new coaching lineup would leave "no chair for me."

Despite The Voice UK insisting that they were still in talks with Tom and his team about his future involvement, it's now been said that the singer won't be returning for a cameo

An ITV spokesperson commented at the time: "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."

Fellow coach Will.i.am, who is set to remain on the show with Kelly Rowland, has reportedly expressed his anger over Jones's departure. Sources suggest that the excitement for the new additions has been overshadowed by an awkward atmosphere on set due to the controversy surrounding Jones's exit.