Since the advent of the UK’s Pop Idol and the US equivalent, American Idol, singing competitions have become a cultural mainstay. The contestants are obviously a big part of that success. Still, the judges are also another huge factor. That original American Idol line-up of Simon Cowell, Paula Abdul, and Randy Jackson was legendary. Speaking of legends, the UK version of The Voice has had one in its presence for years. Sir Tom Jones has been a judge since season one. Now, for conflicting reasons, he’s out.
The Voice UK edition is going to be entering its 15th season. Tom Jones will not be joining them. The man is an absolute music legend. While he was bigger in the UK than the US, he still scored a number of hits over here too. “It’s Not Unusual,” “What’s New Pussycat,” “She’s a Lady,” “Delilah,” and numerous others bore his signature vocals. His career even saw a resurgence in 2000 when his album Reload racked up another 5 top 40 hits in his native UK.
His presence and personality made him a great fit for The Voice. Now he’s being kicked out for reasons that differ depending on who’s telling the story. According to Jones on his official Instagram, it was because of insurance issues.
What Jones may be alluding to is that shows often have to pay insurance costs for their stars in case of injury or other health concerns. It’s possible that with Jones’ age, his premiums would be more costly, and the show is refusing to pay them. Meanwhile, Jones is saying that the program is alleging it’s part of a creative refresh. Either way, Jones seems to be handling it with grace. “There’s never a good time to fire an 86-year-old who’s still pretty good at his job” is an elegant way to voice one’s disappointment.
Is this the actual story, or is there more going on? Will.i.am has been the only other consistent judge on the program. They’ve routinely gone through other judges to make up their panel of four. Currently, it’s confirmed that Kelly Rowland and Will.i.am will be returning for season 15. Is it actually a creative refresh, or is the show hurting for money? Either way, maybe this will free up Tom Jones to appear in a remake of Mars Attacks.
