The Voice UK fans slam ITV over Tom Jones axe as star belts out biggest hit on show

THE Voice UK fans have slammed ITV’s decision to axe Sir Tom Jones after he brought the show to a standstill with a performance of his biggest hit. The 86-year-old belted out It’s Not Unusual during tonight’s episode, prompting viewers to question how, and why, the talent show will replace him next year. Sir Tom Jones performed It’s Not Unusual on tonight’s episode of The Voice UK Credit: The Voice UK/ ITV The 86-year-old’s performance sparked fresh anger over his departure Credit: The Voice UK/ ITV Following his off the cuff show, fans flooded social media with criticism of the music legend’s departure after 13 seasons as a coach. One wrote: “That’s it. After Tom Jones singing ‘It’s Not Unusual’ on The Voice, I’m not watching next year if Tom isn’t on it. Sign up for the TV newsletter Thank you! “His voice, his expertise, his stories, NO ONE can touch him OR REPLACE HIM. TRAVESTY ITV.” Another said: “Sir Tom Jones stops The Voice UK with a sublime rendition of It’s Not Unusual and a great memory. Sir Tom has said he did not want to leave the coaching panel Credit: ITV Cheryl Cole will join The Voice UK as a coach next year Credit: Splash “Fast forward 12 months and Cheryl Cole recalls a time when the mad Irish one said something mad and the ginger one didn’t say anything and sings something bland… Not quite the same.” A third added: “Sir Tom Jones, yet again proving his talent, experience and voice are far greater than the so-called bigwigs of The Voice UK. “He should have been treated with the respect his experience in music deserves.” Another viewer called the Welsh star “24 carat” and “definitely our treasure”. Most read in TV Sir Tom has since thanked fans for their support, writing: “It’s Not Unusual… So many heartfelt messages, comments and even petitions of support. It doesn’t go unnoticed and it’s been really lovely to receive these! Thank you!” Sir Tom, who first joined The Voice in 2012, said earlier this month that he did not want to leave. But bosses at ITV believe the next series needs a shake-up, although there are plans for the Green Green Grass Of Home singer to be involved at some point in a “different capacity”. Meanwhile, Cheryl Cole will join the coaching panel next year alongside Aitch, Kelly Rowland and will.i.am. The Sun previously revealed that Aitch would replace McFly duo Danny Jones and Tom Fletcher, who are also leaving the show. Longtime host Emma Willis is leaving to present Strictly Come Dancing, with Stacey Solomon and Alesha Dixon taking over as co-hosts. Comment now