The Voice UK returns to ITV1 and ITVX tonight (Saturday, October 3) at 8.50pm after being pulled from the schedule last weekend due to programming changes. Sir Tom Jones, Kelly Rowland, will.i.am, Danny Jones and Tom Fletcher will all be back on screens for the latest round of blind auditions.
Coaches continue team selection
The synopsis for this weekend's episode states: "Emma Willis hosts the spinning-chair singing contest, with coaches Tom Jones, Will.i.am, Kelly Rowland, Tom Fletcher and Danny Jones assessing more acts. With only eight places available on each team, the mentors must choose carefully as they search for the UK's most exciting singing talent, with the Rewind button giving them the chance to bring back an artist they regret letting go."
The current series, which began in August for series 14, sees Destiny's Child singer Kelly Rowland replace pop star LeAnn Rimes as a panel coach. At the time, the former X Factor judge said she "can't wait to hear all the new talent and to go to battle for my team. Let's go!" and she has proved popular with viewers since her first appearance.
Rewind feature and future changes
The series introduces the Rewind feature, designed to assist coaches who react too slowly when pressing the button during blind auditions. Each coach gets one opportunity to reconsider a performer who departed the stage without securing a chair turn, and may activate the Rewind function to welcome the contestant back to their squad.
Confirmation has emerged that host Emma Willis will not be returning for the fifteenth series next year, with Stacey Solomon and Alesha Dixon assuming presenting responsibilities. Additionally, Sir Tom, Tom and Danny will not be returning as coaches, with rapper Aitch and Girls Aloud legend Cheryl joining the panel alongside will.i.am and Kelly.
The choice to exclude Sir Tom has sparked criticism from audiences, with numerous supporters demanding that ITV reinstates the Welsh vocalist. A petition entitled Reinstate Sir Tom Jones on The Voice UK has garnered over 69,000 signatures from disappointed supporters campaigning for his comeback.
The Voice UK continues Saturday, October 3 on ITV1 and ITVX at 8.50pm.
