Sir Tom Jones Says ITV “Fired” Him From The Voice—And He Is Not Happy About Their Consolation Offer

Sir Tom Jones has broken his silence over his uncertain future on The Voice UK-and the music legend is making it clear that leaving the famous red chair was not his decision.

The 86-year-old Welsh superstar says ITV decided some time ago to remove him from the judging panel, although he was only recently informed. In a candid social media statement, Jones did not soften his language, declaring that the broadcaster had effectively chosen to "fire" him from the show he still loves.

"The reason given is because of a financial difficulty with insurance," Jones explained. However, he claimed a different explanation subsequently appeared in the press: ITV reportedly wanted to "refresh" the program with a new coaching line-up-and there would no longer be a chair for him.

Adding insult to injury, Jones says he was offered a dramatically reduced role that would allow him to make an appearance without serving as a coach from the beginning of the competition. Unsurprisingly, the veteran entertainer is not rushing to accept that consolation prize.

"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 admitted.

Jones has been one of The Voice UK's most recognisable personalities since the competition premiered in 2012. Although his tenure has not been uninterrupted, his warmth, unmistakable laugh and decades of musical experience have made him a favourite with contestants and viewers alike.

The public statement has now created a curious behind-the-scenes standoff. While Jones insists that ITV made the decision to remove him, a source connected to the program reportedly said there was still hope that he could return for the upcoming series. ITV has been approached for an official response.

For now, it appears the man behind "It's Not Unusual" is refusing to pretend that this particular television shake-up is business as usual. If ITV truly wants to "refresh" The Voice, it may have to explain why that refresh apparently means sidelining one of the show's most beloved-and certainly most legendary-coaches.