‘Disappointed’! Voice UK fans launch petition for ITV to bring back Sir Tom Jones
Sir Tom Jones has received a huge show of support from fans after more than 48,000 people signed a petition calling for him to return as a full-time coach on The Voice UK.
The 86-year-old music legend has been part of the ITV singing competition on and off since it launched in 2012, becoming one of the show’s most recognisable faces.
However, Sir Tom will not return as a full-time coach for the 2027 series following a major shake-up to the red-chair line-up.
After reports emerged that his place on the programme was under threat, Sir Tom said he was “not thrilled” by what ITV had offered him instead and claimed the broadcaster had made the decision to “fire” him.
ITV later stressed that discussions about his possible involvement in the next series were continuing.
A spokesperson said: “We have loved working with Sir Tom Jones over the past nine years on The Voice UK.”
They added: “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.”
Fans Launch Petition After Coaching Shake-Up
Following the announcement, Sir Tom’s supporters launched a Change.org petition demanding that he be restored to the coaching panel.
The campaign quickly gathered momentum, attracting more than 48,000 signatures at the time of the original report, alongside hundreds of comments from fans backing the Welsh singer.
The petition’s creator argued that Sir Tom had become a crucial part of the programme’s identity.
They said his “presence has been integral to the chemistry and success of the programme” and claimed that removing him as a coach had disappointed fans while also depriving contestants of the chance to work with someone of his experience.
The petition continued: “Bringing back Sir Tom to The Voice UK will not just honour his contributions but will also resonate with the fans’ desire for an authentic and enriching viewing experience.”
It also praised his mentoring style, describing the environment he creates for contestants as an important part of the programme.
Cheryl and Aitch Join The Voice UK
Sir Tom’s departure from the full-time coaching panel forms part of a wider revamp for the 2027 series.
Girls Aloud star Cheryl and Manchester rapper Aitch have both been announced as new coaches.
They will join returning stars Kelly Rowland and will.i.am.
The changes also follow the departure of Danny Jones and Tom Fletcher from the coaching line-up.
Announcing the new panel, ITV described Cheryl and Aitch as two major additions to the programme.
“The famous red chairs will see the arrival of two musical forces making their debut as coaches,” a spokesperson said.
“Platinum-selling rap artist Aitch and global pop icon Cheryl are set to begin their hunt for the nation’s next vocal powerhouse.”
Kelly Rowland will return for a second series, while will.i.am continues his long association with the programme.
Sir Tom Says Decision Was Not His
The change attracted additional attention after Sir Tom publicly made clear that leaving the full-time coaching role had not been his choice.
He claimed ITV had effectively decided to remove him from the position and said he was unhappy with the alternative arrangement he had been offered.
However, ITV has not ruled out Sir Tom appearing in another capacity.
The broadcaster’s statement said discussions with the singer and his team were continuing, leaving open the possibility that he could still feature in the 2027 series without occupying one of the permanent red chairs.
That uncertainty has only strengthened calls from some fans for ITV to reconsider.
ITV Pays Tribute to ‘Irreplaceable’ Sir Tom
Despite the shake-up, ITV publicly praised Sir Tom’s contribution to The Voice UK.
The broadcaster described him as “irreplaceable” and thanked him for the memorable moments he had created during his years on the show.
“ITV would like to thank the irreplaceable Sir Tom Jones for all his years on The Voice UK, and the countless incredible and unforgettable moments he gave the show,” the statement said.
“He has brought joy to audiences, and to every singer who performed for him and with him.”
Fans Hope ITV Changes Its Mind
Sir Tom has been closely associated with The Voice UK since its debut in 2012, making his absence from the full-time panel a significant change for longtime viewers.
The petition demonstrates the strength of feeling among fans who believe his experience, personality and mentoring style remain central to the programme.
With more than 48,000 signatures already collected at the time of the report, supporters are making their message to ITV clear.
Whether the campaign will persuade the broadcaster to reverse its decision remains uncertain.
For now, Cheryl and Aitch are preparing to join Kelly Rowland and will.i.am in the red chairs, while discussions continue over whether Sir Tom could still have some involvement in the next series.
