Sir Tom Jones’ final appearance as a coach on The Voice UK brought his 13-year association with the show to a close on Saturday. The 86-year-old singer was in the red chair for the series finale, which also marked the last episodes for fellow coaches Danny Jones and Tom Fletcher of McFly.
Jones’s departure follows an ITV coaching-panel shake-up. The Sun reported in September that he would not return for the next series. Jones later told fans on Instagram that leaving had not been his choice, writing, “I did not want to leave.” He said ITV had made the decision earlier but informed him only recently.
Jones said the initial explanation he received involved financial difficulties with insurance. He also responded to the broadcaster’s explanation that the programme needed a refresh, noting that a new coaching line-up meant there would be no place for him.
A changing panel
Cheryl and Aitch are set to join returning coaches will.i.am and Kelly Rowland for the upcoming series. Rowland made her debut on the current series. Jones, Danny Jones and Tom Fletcher are all leaving the panel, though their departures have different circumstances: the two McFly members had decided to leave, while Jones said ITV’s decision ended his stint.
The Sun also reported that Jones had been offered the possibility of returning as a “super guest judge” for next year’s competition, but declined. The publication cited a source who said ITV had hoped he might remain involved in some capacity. That reported proposal did not change the outcome: Jones will not be part of the next series.
His exit drew messages of support from viewers on social media. Some expressed sadness that he would no longer coach on the programme, while others reflected on the finale as his last time in the red chair. The reactions came amid a farewell that was not the one Jones said he wanted.
The final also gave Jones a celebratory moment alongside his contestant, Welsh singer Cate McHugh. After McHugh was crowned champion, Jones joined her on stage and embraced her. Her win brought a triumphant close to his final series, even as the circumstances of his departure made the occasion bittersweet.
The Voice UK is available to watch on ITVX.
