If you’ve ever sat down on a Saturday night to watch a group of hopefuls try to impress four chairs, you know the vibe. But there is one thing that always anchors the chaos. Sir Tom Jones. He sits there, usually looking pretty chill, while everyone else is doing backflips for the camera. It’s kinda wild when you think about it. He’s 85 now. Most people his age are rightfully taking it easy, but here he is, judging the next generation of singers on Tom Jones and The Voice.
Honestly, the show wouldn't be the same without him. It’s not just about the name recognition. It’s that voice. That deep, resonant boom that seems to come from his boots. People often assume he’s just a legacy act brought in for "prestige," but that's a huge misconception. He’s the tactical backbone of the panel. While the other coaches might look for the "marketable" look or the trendy "vocal fry," Tom is listening for the engine. He wants to hear the power.
Why the Chair Still Spins
The fourteenth series of The Voice UK is hitting screens in early 2026, and yes, Sir Tom is back. He’s joined by Will.i.am—who’s been there as long as he has—and the "super dope" duo of Tom Fletcher and Danny Jones from McFly. This year, they’ve also got Kelly Rowland in the mix, taking over from LeAnn Rimes.
But even with a Destiny’s Child star and pop-rock royalty on the panel, the spotlight usually drifts back to the Welsh legend.
Why? Because he actually knows these people. Not just "knows" them like he saw them on Instagram. He knew Elvis. He sang with Janis Joplin. He was friends with Aretha Franklin. When he drops a name, it isn't a flex. It’s a lesson. He’s basically a walking library of 20th-century music history. He’s lived the life these contestants are just starting to dream about.
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The Myth of the Script
One of the coolest things about Tom Jones and The Voice is the lack of a script. There was a rumor a while back—and Tom eventually confirmed it—that producers once tried to give the coaches a book of "suggested comments." Basically a "How to Be a Judge for Dummies" guide.
They hated it.
Tom and the other coaches were totally dismissive. They’d actually "call each other out" if they heard someone using a pre-written line. If someone said something that sounded a bit too polished or "TV-ready," the others would shoot them a look. It kept the show authentic. That’s probably why he’s stayed so long. He’s not interested in being a puppet. He’s there to find real singers.
The Health Scare and the Comeback
Let’s be real: people worry. When you’re 85 and still touring the world, every little hiccup makes headlines. In July 2025, there was a bit of a scare when he had to cancel a show in Bremen, Germany. It was an upper respiratory infection. He had to take some time to rest.
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"How the hell is this coming out of me?"
That’s what he told the Mirror recently. He seems as surprised as we are that his vocal cords are still made of steel. He’s had both hips replaced (2017 and 2022), but as long as the voice works, he’s going to keep using it. He’s often said that if the voice went, he’d stop. But for now? The vibrato is still there. The control is still there. It’s kinda terrifyingly good.
Coaching Style: More Than Just a "Turn"
Tom isn't a "one-size-fits-all" kind of mentor. He’s surprisingly nuanced.
- Breath Control: He’s obsessed with it. If you’re gasping for air halfway through a chorus, he’s not turning. He looks for singers who can sustain a note without looking like they’re about to pass out.
- Projection: He wants you to reach the back of the room. Not just the microphone in front of your face.
- Song Choice: This is where he wins or loses the show. He’s a master at picking tracks that highlight a singer’s unique texture. Think back to Ruti Olajugbagbe in 2018 or Anthonia Edwards. He doesn't try to make them sound like him; he tries to make them sound like the best version of themselves.
He’s the "joy prescription," as Will.i.am calls it. He brings a sense of calm to a show that can sometimes feel a bit frantic.
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What’s Actually Happening in 2026?
The new series is shifting things up. After skipping the usual autumn slot in 2025, the show is returning with a slightly different rhythm. Kelly Rowland is the new blood, and the chemistry between her and Sir Tom is expected to be a highlight. She’s got that US R&B polish, while he’s got the gritty, soulful experience of a man who’s been on stage for 61 years.
It’s worth noting that the "Battle" rounds are back in full force, and the series has been extended. More episodes mean more time to actually see the coaching process, which is where Tom really shines. He isn't just a judge; he’s a teacher.
Actionable Insights for Fans and Aspiring Singers
If you’re watching Tom Jones and The Voice hoping to learn something, or if you're a singer yourself, pay attention to his feedback. It’s rarely about the high notes. It’s almost always about the "story."
- Prioritize Stamina: If you want to sing like Sir Tom, work on your core. He credits his natural "thick set" and muscular build for his vocal longevity. It’s a physical job.
- Authenticity Wins: Don't use the "script." In life and in performance, people can tell when you’re reading from a book of "suggested comments."
- Watch the Duets: Some of the best moments on the show are when Tom gets up to sing with a contestant. Watch his posture. Watch how he breathes. Even at 85, he’s teaching a masterclass every time he opens his mouth.
Keep an eye on the ITV schedule for the early 2026 premiere. Whether you're there for the talent or just to see what Sir Tom is wearing, it’s shaping up to be a standout season.
Next Steps for You
- Check the TV Listings: Ensure you’re set for the 2026 season premiere on ITV1/ITVX.
- Explore the Archives: Look up the 2019 duet with Peter Donegan or the 2024 performance with Stan Urban to see the "Tom Jones magic" in action.
- Follow Official Channels: Stay updated on Sir Tom's "Ages & Stages" tour dates, as he often integrates his The Voice experience into his live storytelling.