Welsh singer Tom Jones has broken his silence after he was let go from ITV’s The Voice after 13 years.
Reports began surfacing that the Sex Bomb singer, 86, would not be returning to the show, but sources said ITV insisted it was “hopeful Tom would return” to the show.
Now, Tom has issued a scathing statement, revealing he was let go by the television network.
“To be clear, I did not want to leave The Voice as I love the show and really appreciate the audience. ITV made this decision – obviously a while ago – and I was just told recently,” Tom said in a statement on Instagram.
“The reason given is because of a financial difficulty with insurance. They now say in the press they want to ‘refresh’ the show, and a new coaching line-up there wouldn’t be a chair for me.
Tom added: “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. Sir Tom Jones.”
© Getty ImagesThe message was met with countless comments from fans. “You were the only reason I watched it,” one penned. A second added: “Well said Mr Jones!” Meanwhile, “Only reason I watched it!! I’ll be surprised if Will I am doesn’t follow you!”
In the most recent series of The Voice UK, Sir Tom features as a coach alongside McFly stars Tom Fletcher and Danny Jones, as well as US rapper Will.i.am and Destiny’s Child singer Kelly Rowland.
© AFP via Getty ImagesThe award-winning singer has also mentored three winners on the programme: Leanne Mitchell in series one, Ruti Olajugbagbe in series seven, and Anthonia Edwards in series 11.
Sir Tom has featured alongside many coaches during his tenure on the show, including singers Jessie J, Olly Murs, Kylie Minogue and Rita Ora.
Who are the new judges?
According to the Sun, Manchester-born rapper Aitch is set to replace Tom and Danny.
Former Girls Aloud singer Cheryl is also set to make her primetime TV comeback as a coach, while rapper will.i.am is returning with Kelly Rowland.
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