Calls to bring axed Sir Tom Jones back to The Voice grow as Will.i.am backs petition & stars vent fury

THE VOICE UK judge Will.i.am has publicly backed a petition calling for Tom Jones to return to the show. The 86-year-old crooner was unceremoniously fired from the ITV singing show in a brutal move earlier this week. Will.i.am has been backing the petition to bring Tom Jones back to The Voice Credit: ITV He reposted the petition to his social media platforms Credit: Eroteme The Black Eyed Peas star seems utterly furious by his co-star’s show dumping, and has even reposted a Change.org petition to bring Tom back to the judging panel onto his Instagram story. Alongside the petition link and a photo of Tom, a quote from Tom himself speaking about the firing reads: “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.” Sign up for the TV newsletter Thank you! Will.i.am added a large crying face emoji next to the words, clearly backing his co-star. The petition has currently accumulated over 11,500 signatures and reads: “Sir Tom Jones, the legendary artist with decades of music industry experience, has recently been removed from his role as a judge on The Voice UK by ITV. This decision 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. Will and Tom are good friends Credit: Getty Tom has been part of The Voice for 13 years Credit: Getty “For many fans, Sir Tom is an essential part of The Voice UK. 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.” A source told The Sun that Tom only found out that he had been booted very last minute. They shared: “Last weekend Sir Tom was packing his bags for the judges’ meeting, now he’s been dropped. How he’s been treated is awful.” Most read in TV The source further told of how welcome drinks for the judges to mingle have been cancelled and how Will.i.am is furious. They said: “Welcome drinks are usually put on by ITV at a top five-star hotel and it’s a nice way for everyone to meet before filming. But not this year. “It’s seriously awkward as Will.i.am is furious with how producers have handled things and is making his feelings known behind the scenes.” Tom first joined The Voice back in 2012 as one of the show’s first coaches. Cheryl from Girls Aloud shall be replacing him on the judging panel. Other judges on the show will include Aitch from I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here! and Kelly Rowland. Comment now