Tom Jones says he did not choose to leave The Voice UK, revealing that ITV made the decision to remove him as a full-time coach ahead of the show’s 15th series. The 86-year-old singer addressed his departure in a statement shared on social media on Tuesday, September 8, after reports emerged that he would not return to the coaching panel for the next season.

Jones said he was informed only recently that ITV had decided to end his full-time role, despite the broadcaster having made the decision earlier. He said the reason given to him was a “financial difficulty with insurance,” while reports surrounding the change have also described it as part of an effort to refresh the show’s coaching lineup.

The Welsh singer made clear that he wanted to remain with the program, saying he loved the show and appreciated its audience. He also revealed that ITV offered him a significantly reduced role in which he could make appearances without being involved from the beginning of the competition. Jones said he was not satisfied with that arrangement.

Jones has been part of The Voice UK since the series launched in 2012, although he missed its fifth season. He returned afterward and went on to become one of the show’s longest-serving coaches, appearing across 13 of its first 14 seasons.

The current 14th season is still airing, with Jones appearing alongside will.i.am, Kelly Rowland, Tom Fletcher and Danny Jones. His departure means the current season is expected to be his final run as a full-time coach on the ITV competition unless his involvement in another capacity is agreed.

ITV has confirmed that Jones will not be a full-time coach for series 15 but said discussions with the singer and his team about his involvement in the upcoming season are continuing. The broadcaster also said it had enjoyed working with Jones during his years on the program.

Reports about the show’s next coaching lineup have pointed to changes beyond Jones’ departure. Cheryl, the former Girls Aloud singer and The X Factor judge, has been linked with a coaching position, while will.i.am and Kelly Rowland are expected to continue. ITV has not yet formally announced the complete season 15 lineup.

Jones ended his statement by addressing the circumstances of his exit, noting that he believed there was no good time to dismiss an 86-year-old performer who remains active. His comments have since drawn reactions from fellow musicians and former The Voice UK colleagues, including will.i.am and Olly Murs.

Season 15 of The Voice UK is scheduled to follow the currently airing series, with the next coaching panel expected to reflect the program’s planned lineup changes. ITV’s discussions with Jones over a possible reduced involvement remain ongoing.