Sir Tom Jones has confirmed his exit from The Voice UK, claiming that he did not want to leave the show in a new statement posted on social media.
It had been reported that the 86-year-old music legend would have a reduced role on the next season of the talent show, with ITV said to be planning a major refresh to its coaching panel.
According to The Sun, Sir Tom would no longer keep his own chair or mentor his own team of contestants as part of the shake-up. Now, the singer has addressed these claims.
In a statement, Sir Tom wrote: "To be clear, I did not want to leave The Voice as I love the show and really appreciate the audience.
"ITV made this decision - obviously a while ago, and I was told just recently. 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."
Sir Tom claimed that ITV has offered him "a much-reduced role" where he would make an appearance but would not be involved from the start – something he is "not thrilled" about.
"So 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," he concluded.
Want to see this content?
This page contains content provided by Twitter. We ask for your permission before anything is loaded, as Twitter may use cookies and other technologies. To view this content, choose 'Accept and continue' to allow Twitter and its required purposes.
A spokesperson for The Voice UK told Radio Times: "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."
Following the initial reports, a source previously told : "ITV absolutely loves working with Sir Tom. They are in talks with him and are hopeful he will return to the series."
The Sun earlier reported that Aitch would be joining the show, replacing McFly duo Danny Jones and Tom Fletcher, who are said to be leaving after the current season.
Cheryl is also thought to be making her return to television as a coach, alongside will.i.am and Kelly Rowland, who is reportedly staying on as a coach for a second season.
ITV has not yet commented on reports of Cheryl or Aitch joining the show.
The Voice UK continues on Saturday 12 September at 7pm on ITV1 and ITVX.
Add The Voice UK to your watchlist on the Radio Times: What to Watch app – download now for daily TV recommendations, features and more.
Check out more of our to find out what else is on. For more TV recommendations and reviews listen to .