The Voice UK will not broadcast tonight in its regular Saturday evening slot on ITV1. The fourteenth series of the singing competition is currently on air, but the latest Blind Auditions episode has been removed from the broadcaster's schedule this evening (Saturday, September 26).
England vs Spain replaces The Voice
ITV1 will instead show the UEFA Nations League fixture between England and Spain as Harry Kane and his squad kick off their campaign with a challenging encounter against the World Cup champions.
The Voice UK normally broadcasts on Saturday evenings, but viewers will need to wait an additional week to discover which aspiring singers persuade Sir Tom Jones, Kelly Rowland, will.i.am, Danny Jones and Tom Fletcher to turn in the iconic red chairs.
Sir Tom Jones departure confirmed
It has been confirmed that Welsh legend Sir Tom will not be returning to The Voice UK as a coach next year. The cherished 86-year-old performer has appeared as an intermittent coach on the popular singing competition since its debut in 2012, but recent reports suggested his position on the programme was at risk following a behind-the-scenes restructure.
After speculation surfaced that he might not return for the 2027 series, Sir Tom revealed he was "not thrilled" about what ITV had offered him in place of his coaching role, and claimed the broadcaster had "made the decision" to "fire" him.
Following Sir Tom's public response, a programme spokesperson stated: "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."
New coaches announced
It was subsequently revealed that Girls Aloud star Cheryl has joined the coaching panel for the forthcoming series, alongside Manchester rapper and fellow newcomer Aitch. The pair will fill the void left by Sir Tom, as well as Danny Jones and Tom Fletcher, joining returning coaches Kelly Rowland and will.i.am.
At the time of the announcement, a spokesperson said: "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."
"We also thank Emma Willis, Tom Fletcher and Danny Jones for their brilliant contributions, and who all brought so much dedication, expertise and energy to The Voice UK and wish them the very best of luck as they embark on their next chapters."
Fans launch petition
Following these shake-ups, Sir Tom's devoted supporters have rallied together and launched a Change.org petition demanding his reinstatement to the programme for the upcoming series.
The petition's creator contends that his "presence has been integral to the chemistry and success of the programme" and that removing him from the coaching panel "has not only disappointed millions of his fans but has also deprived aspiring singers of the chance to be guided by someone of his stature and expertise."
They further state that: "Bringing back Sir Tom to The Voice UK will not just honour 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".
At the time of publication, the petition had amassed more than 63,600 signatures, accompanied by hundreds of heartfelt messages from supporters expressing their admiration for Sir Tom.
The Voice UK returns on Saturday, October 3 on ITV1 and ITVX at 8.50pm.
