Sir Tom Jones says ITV removed him from The Voice UK over insurance concerns despite wanting to remain on the show.
Sir Tom Jones has said ITV decided to remove him from The Voice UK, claiming the broadcaster cited financial difficulties related to insurance.
The 86-year-old Welsh singer made the comments in a social media post after reports emerged that he may not return as a coach for the programme’s next series, which is expected to begin production ahead of its 2027 run.
Jones said he was informed of ITV’s decision only recently, despite the broadcaster having made it some time ago.
“To be clear, I did not want to leave The Voice as I love the show and really appreciate the audience,” Jones said.
He said the reason given to him for his removal was “a financial difficulty with insurance,” while suggesting ITV’s public explanation about refreshing the programme did not reflect what he had been told.
“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,” he said.
Jones also disclosed that he had been offered a reduced role that would involve making an appearance without being part of the programme from its beginning.
“They are offering a much-reduced role where I would make an appearance but without being actually involved from the start, and I’m not thrilled about that,” he said.
Concluding his statement, Jones added: “So 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.”
ITV has not publicly confirmed the circumstances surrounding Jones’ departure. However, reports have suggested that the broadcaster is considering changes to the coaching and presenting line-up.
Jones has been associated with The Voice since its launch on the BBC in 2012 and has served as a coach on the programme across multiple series.
Three of the contestants he mentored have gone on to win the competition: Leanne Mitchell in the first series, Ruti Olajugbagbe in series seven and Anthonia Edwards in series 11.
In the most recent series, Jones appeared alongside Tom Fletcher, Danny Jones, Will.i.am and Kelly Rowland on the coaching panel.
The singer, whose career spans more than six decades, is known for songs including “Green Green Grass of Home” and “What’s New Pussycat?” He has also received a Grammy Award, two Brit Awards and an Ivor Novello Award.
Jones was knighted by Queen Elizabeth II in 2006 for his services to music.