Sir Tom Jones ‘disappointed’ after being axed from The Voice with ‘no conversation’

Sir Tom Jones has accused the BBC of “sub-standard behaviour” over his axing from The Voice.

In a post on his Facebook page, the singer said he was only told on Thursday that he would not be returning to the reality singing contest as a coach – just 24 hours before the new line-up was announced.

The disgruntled music veteran said he was ditched “with no consultation or conversation of any kind”.

(Joel Ryan/Invision/PA)

It has been announced the Welsh star, who has been a coach on the show since it launched, and singer Rita Ora, who earlier announced she was quitting, will be replaced by Paloma Faith and Boy George.

Sir Tom said: “In good faith, as part of the team, I’d put the time in my schedule to be involved in series five, as I’ve done so for the last four years.

Sir Tom Jones promoting The Voice in 2015 before he was ditched by the BBC one show

(Ian West/PA)

“I’ve supported the show and the BBC since the beginning. I was told yesterday, with no consultation or conversation of any kind, that I would not be returning.

“Having been through plenty of transformations throughout the years, I support and admire creative change.

“But being informed, as a matter of duty and respect, is an important part of creative relationships. This sub-standard behaviour from the executives is very disappointing.

“I will always admire the courage of the performers who participate in the show, as well as all the production staff who worked tirelessly to make a great family viewing experience for the audience at home. I wish the show well.”

The Voice returns to BBC1 early in 2016.

PA Media is the national news agency for the UK and Ireland. With unrivalled access to the performers, productions and celebrities on both sides of the Atlantic, PA Media stories provide an irresistible glimpse into showbiz news. Bringing you all of entertainment's big moments. From daily soaps to film productions, we cover the shows that audiences want to know about with our previews, news and interviews.