The Voice UK viewers erupted in anger on social media as Saturday's episode aired, days after Sir Tom Jones revealed he had been axed from the judging panel after 13 years on the show.
Sir Tom, 86, said he was dropped by ITV at the last minute and accused the broadcaster of firing him over what he described as a financial difficulty with insurance. He said the decision to leave was not his own.
ITV has since confirmed a new lineup for the singing competition, with Cheryl joining the panel. Stacey Solomon and Alesha Dixon are set to take over as hosts from Emma Willis, who left the role after being announced as a new presenter on Strictly Come Dancing.
Viewers react on social media
As the current series continued to air with Sir Tom still on screen, fans took to X to demand his return. One viewer wrote: "Can't believe they've sacked the legend Tom Jones and replaced him with Stacey Solomon. What does she know about musical talent? About mentoring a singer? ITV are making a mockery of #thevoice."
Another posted: "Why the f**k are they getting rid of Tom Jones on The Voice again?? He's the only one who actually knows how to sing out of the judges." Others simply repeated: "Keep Tom, Keep Tom, Keep Tom," while one suggested ITV should "keep Tom Jones and get rid of the producer of The Voice."
Will.i.am's reported reaction
The backlash has coincided with reports that fellow coach will.i.am was left in tears over Sir Tom's exit and is said to be furious about the decision. A source told The Sun that will.i.am had made no secret of how he felt, leaving producers nervous ahead of the first show.
According to the source, during the first filming session of the new series on Friday in Manchester, will.i.am broke down crying and said the only reason he had returned to the show was because he had Sir Tom's blessing. The source said that when the judges came out and producers asked them to talk about the year ahead, will.i.am refused to speak. "It was so awkward, he crossed his arms like a child and Kelly had to jump in instead to talk about how excited she was to be back," the source said.
The Daily Mail has contacted ITV and will.i.am's representatives for comment.
A new series mired in controversy
Filming on the new series began earlier this week, but it has been overshadowed by controversy since it emerged that Sir Tom would not be returning as a coach.
In a statement confirming the new lineup, ITV bosses thanked Sir Tom for his years on the show, calling him "irreplaceable" and crediting him with "countless incredible and unforgettable moments." The statement added: "He has brought joy to audiences, and to every singer who performed for him and with him."
Will.i.am, who is remaining on the panel alongside Kelly Rowland, is said to have vented his fury over Sir Tom's departure, with sources claiming he has made his feelings known backstage.
Awkward atmosphere on set
Sources have said that despite Cheryl and rapper Aitch being welcomed as new additions to the panel, any excitement on set has been replaced by awkwardness over the row surrounding Sir Tom's exit.
