Will.i.am has shown his support for a petition calling for Sir Tom Jones to be reinstated as a coach on The Voice UK, as the campaign to bring back the Welsh music legend gathers tens of thousands of signatures.
The Black Eyed Peas star, who has worked alongside Sir Tom on the ITV talent show, shared a joint Instagram post with Change.org promoting the petition launched by superfan Aaron Howlett.
The post featured a photograph of Will.i.am and Sir Tom together on The Voice, capturing the moment where the American rapper and singer praised the Welsh icon's decades of musical experience.
Will.i.am's tribute to Sir Tom
Will.i.am said: "85 years of every experience you can think of in this man's sponge of a soul and he rinsed it out for us and we bathed in it. Thank you, Sir Tom Jones, for these moments. You're a gift to us all."
The intervention comes after ITV confirmed that Sir Tom will no longer be a full-time coach when The Voice UK returns for its 15th series in 2027.
The legendary singer, who was born in Treforest, Rhondda Cynon Taf, has been an on-off coach on The Voice UK since the programme launched in 2012.
Replacement on the coaching panel
He is being replaced on the coaching panel by former Girls Aloud star Cheryl, who will join Will.i.am and returning coach Kelly Rowland, alongside rapper Aitch.
Sir Tom, 86, has publicly expressed his disappointment at the decision, saying he did not want to leave the programme and was "not thrilled" about being offered a reduced role.
In a statement shared on social media earlier this month, the singer wrote: "The reason given is because of a 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 a chair for me."
ITV's response
When the modifications to The Voice UK for 2027 were revealed, an ITV spokesperson commented: "The famous red chairs will see the arrival of two musical forces making their debut as coaches. Platinum-selling rap artist Aitch and global pop icon Cheryl are set to begin their hunt for the nation's next vocal powerhouse."
"These new additions will take their places alongside international superstar Kelly Rowland, who makes her highly anticipated return for a second series as a coach. They join long-standing The Voice UK legend will.i.am."
They also released a statement directed at Sir Tom, saying: "ITV would like to thank the irreplaceable Sir Tom Jones for all his years on The Voice UK, and the countless incredible and unforgettable moments he gave the show. He has brought joy to audiences, and to every singer who performed for him and with him."
Petition gathers support
However since the news, a petition calling for his return has attracted tens of thousands of supporters from around the world.
The campaign was started by Aaron Howlett, 50, from Kingston-upon-Hull, who said he launched it after learning that Sir Tom would no longer have his familiar red chair.
The petition argues that Sir Tom's experience and relationship with contestants have made him an important part of the programme.
Aaron wrote: "His genuine interactions, insightful critiques, and mentorship have had a profound impact not only on the contestants but also on the audience. He brings a wealth of knowledge to the show, having mentored winning acts and propelled careers of numerous artists who otherwise might have gone unnoticed."
"This removal seems unfair and disrespectful, not just to Sir Tom, who has dedicated himself to the role since its inception, but also to the loyal viewers who have supported the show because of his participation. His presence has been integral to the chemistry and success of the programme."
Furthermore, his removal could negatively impact the ratings and reputation of The Voice UK, considering the substantial following and goodwill he brings. The audience values authenticity, and Sir Tom embodies that, which translates to trust and warmth in their television experience. His legendary status and musical prowess play a crucial role in cultivating the contestants’ artistic senses and boosting their confidence.
"With all due respect, ITV should reconsider their decision. Bringing back Sir Tom to The Voice UK will not just honor his contributions but will also resonate with the fans' desire for an authentic and enriching viewing experience. The mentoring and nurturing environment Sir Tom provides is unparalleled and essential to maintaining the core values of the show."
Many fans have reiterated Aaron's points. Carmela from Montréal responded: "I’m from Ottawa Canada. My mom passed away 3 years ago. On her death bed she had to watch Tom Jones on tv and on YouTube. Us Canadians love him. My mom and I went to see him in concert 3 times when he came to visit my city. There’s nobody like him in his generation that can still sing. So give him the respect he deserves. There’s no reason for giving up his voice chair to someone else. You can’t replace an ICON."
Meanwhile, Alison from Peterborough wrote: "I, like so many people, watch The Voice because of Sir Tom and will stop watching if he's not on it. It's appalling the way he has been treated. How can they remove someone with the most remarkable voice from a programme called The Voice. He has a wealth of experience from all his years in the business. He is awesome in concert (seen him 20 times, 3 of which were this summer after he turned 86!) His voice is still so powerful and pure, it's incredible. He still has an amazing energy and enthusiasm for music. We should make the most of him whilst we still can!"
