Sir Tom Jones has been removed from his role as a full-time judge on ITV's The Voice at the age of 86, which the legendary Welsh singer described as being "fired". Instead, ITV has offered him only a much-reduced, occasional role—a decision that has sparked significant backlash. A fan-led petition to reinstate him as a full-time coach has already gathered over 63,000 signatures, and the campaign has garnered high-profile support including an endorsement from rapper and fellow Voice coach Will.i.am.

Sir Tom, from Treforest in Rhondda Cynon Taf, has been a fixture on The Voice since it premiered in 2012 and has mentored three competitors who went on to win. The petition was initiated by fan Aaron Howlett, 50, from Kingston-upon-Hull, who has supported Sir Tom for four decades. Will.i.am endorsed the petition on Instagram on 15 September, whilst ITV stated they continue to discuss his involvement with the show's next series, due to begin production soon. Supporters, including viewers from around the world, emphasise that Sir Tom remains a major draw for audiences.