Sir Tom Jones reportedly has no plans to return to The Voice UK, even in a reduced guest role, after being removed from the show’s regular coaching panel.

The 86-year-old music legend had been a familiar face on the ITV talent competition since 2012. However, his departure was recently announced against his wishes, prompting the singer to speak publicly about how the decision was handled.

According to The Sun, producers had hoped to bring Jones back for next year’s series in a limited capacity as a so-called super guest judge. The proposed role would have allowed him to make an appearance without serving as a full-time coach. However, the reported plan has now fallen through.

A source told the publication that the situation had become difficult, claiming Jones and his team were angry about how events unfolded. ITV had reportedly hoped to retain his involvement in some form, but the comeback is no longer expected to happen.

The reported disagreement follows Jones’s own explanation of his departure. In a statement, the singer said ITV had made the decision some time earlier, although he had only been informed recently. He also cited financial difficulties involving insurance as the reason initially given to him.

Jones said the broadcaster subsequently described the change as an effort to refresh the show with a new coaching line-up. He added that he had been offered a significantly reduced role, which would have involved appearing on the programme without participating from the beginning.

The singer made clear that he was unhappy with the proposal, noting that he had not wanted to leave the competition. He also delivered a pointed response to the decision, observing that there was never a good time to dismiss an 86-year-old who still felt capable of doing his job.

Despite the controversy, ITV publicly thanked Jones for his years on the programme, praising his contribution and the memorable moments he created for both audiences and contestants.

Meanwhile, producers are reportedly looking to strengthen the show’s appeal with other familiar faces. Former Girls Aloud singer Cheryl is expected to return to the coaching panel, while the team is said to be hoping for an on-screen reunion between current coach Kelly Rowland and her former Destiny’s Child bandmate Michelle Williams.

The reported reunion could provide a nostalgic draw for viewers as the programme prepares for its return next year.

Jones’s absence will mark a significant change for a competition he helped shape over more than a decade. While the new coaching line-up may bring a different energy to the series, the reported collapse of plans for a guest appearance suggests that his departure may be more final than ITV had initially hoped.

The Voice UK is expected to return to television in 2027.

Source: Compiled from various sources.