Sir Tom Jones breaks silence on being 'fired' from The Voice
Sir Tom Jones has taken aim at ITV with a defiant statement addressing his status on The Voice.
Sir Tom Jones says ITV "fired" him from The Voice.
The 86-year-old music icon has responded publicly after reports surfaced claiming he was stepping back from his full-time coaching role on the singing competition after almost 14 years, and becoming a "super mentor".
Following the reports, Sir Tom wrote in an Instagram statement: "To be clear, I did not want to leave The Voice as I love the show and really appreciate the audience."
He insisted the decision was made by ITV themselves, and claimed they initially told him it was for "financial" reasons.
He continued: "ITV made this decision - obviously a while ago, and I was told just recently. The reason give is because of a financial difficulty with insurance.
"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.
"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.
"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."
His comments come after a Voice insider insisted the broadcaster "loves working with Sir Tom".
The source told the Metro newspaper: "ITV absolutely loves working with Sir Tom. They are in talks with him and are hopeful he will return to the series."
News of Sir Tom's departure was first reported by The Sun newspaper on Monday (07.09.26) evening.
An insider said: "Everyone loves Sir Tom but there was a feeling that the upcoming series needed a major refresh.
“With Aitch and Cheryl coming on board and Kelly returning with will.i.am, there just wasn’t a seat going."
However, the insider claimed the Delilah hitmaker would still have a role to play.
They added: “Sir Tom adores the show and finding new talent and still wanted to be involved. He will return later in the series as a super-mentor.”
The report added that Aitch and Cheryl will be joining a new look panel with returning coaches will.i.am and Kelly Rowland.
Kelly joined The Voice in 2025, and Sir Tom revealed at the time that he was looking forward to working with the Destiny's Child star.
The chart-topping singer raved: "It’s always a pleasure to return to The Voice UK as every year I’m reminded of the incredible talent we have in this country.
"I’m looking forward to sitting alongside will.i.am once again, having Tom and Danny in their chair for a second series, and of course I’m excited to welcome Kelly Rowland to the panel. She’s an amazing artist with a huge amount of experience to share."
