Sir Tom Jones, 86, drops scathing statement after brutal TV firing

Music legend Sir Tom Jones has released a scathing statement after he was booted from The Voice UK following 14 years and 13 seasons on the show.

The Welsh singer, 86, took to his social media accounts and claimed the decision to remove him from the show was made behind his back.

“To be clear, I did not want to leave The Voice as I love the show and really appreciate the audience,” Jones’ statement began.

“ITV made this decision, obviously a while ago, and I was told just recently.”

Jones has been a judge on the singing competition show every year (except one) since it’s start in the UK in 2012.

He continued, claiming the network gave him a different explanation for his removal than the one that was shared with the media.

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“The reason I was given is because of financial difficulty with insurance. They now say in the press they wanted to ‘refresh’ the show, and with a new coaching line-up there wouldn’t be room for me.”

In a statement to the BBC, ITV said: “We have loved working with Sir Tom Jones over the past nine years on The Voice UK. 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.”

Jones’ post goes on, explaining he was offered a “reduced role” in the show where he would “make an appearance”, in the shows 15th season, which he turned down.

“I’m not thrilled about that,” he confessed. “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.”

The Delilah singer was flooded with supportive comments on both Instagram and Facebook from fans and musicians alike.

British singer Olly Murs wrote: “Love ya TJ ❤️ I know how much that show means to you mate. Absolute legend and one of the very best to ever sit in that chair🙌🏻.”

“They just got rid of the man with the greatest voice…the irony. I’ll not watch anymore,” one fan wrote.

“How Bloody Dare They,” one passionate fan wrote. “I only watched because of you. I loved the mix-up of ages that’s what made it interesting. And all your wonderful experience and stories ITV you need to think again. Older humans watch tv too!”

Former contestant Karl Loxley also showed his support, writing: “The best thing about being on The Voice was getting the chance to work with you. An absolute legend and a true gentleman. ❤️ The Voice won’t be the same without you.”

Jones first got his start in the music industry in the 1960s with a string of top 10 hits like It’s Not Unusual and What’s New Pussycat.