Adam Vary
Updated on: October 8, 2024 10:19 pm GMT
Tom Jones Opens Up About Olly Murs’ Exit from The Voice
In a candid interview, Sir Tom Jones addressed the shock departure of Olly Murs from the popular ITV singing competition, The Voice. The 84-year-old music legend revealed that Murs, who had been a coach on the show for six years, was “really bothered” by the decision to dismiss him. According to Jones, the move was not only a personal setback for Murs but also a significant change in the dynamics of the show.
A Wave of Changes at The Voice
As The Voice starts its new season, it features not only returning judges but also fresh faces. LeAnn Rimes, alongside McFly’s Tom Fletcher and Danny Jones, joins veteran coaches Sir Tom Jones and Will.i.am on the panel. This season has already seen increased viewership, attracting 2.9 million viewers, a significant rise from last year, particularly among younger audiences. Reports indicate that the audience aged 16 to 24 has surged by 93% compared to the previous season.
What Happened to Olly Murs?
Jones shared insights into Murs’ departure, which has been a topic of significant media attention. According to Tom, Olly did not want to leave the show and was deeply affected by the decision, especially considering his new family life. “We’ve both been on the road, but when it happened we talked quite a bit. He didn’t want to leave; he loved doing the show,” Jones stated. Olly Murs himself acknowledged that the decision was not amicable, stating, “I don’t want to sit here like other artists might, and gloss this up.” He confirmed that the reasons behind his exit were more complex than what was publicly disclosed.
Criticism of Talent Show Norms
In the same conversation, Sir Tom Jones took a moment to critique the approach of talent shows like Simon Cowell’s Britain’s Got Talent, suggesting that they can be excessively harsh. He remarked, “Those kinds of talent shows take it too far… by saying, ‘Why are you on this show? What makes you think you can sing?'” This has drawn a contrast to The Voice, where Jones argues that contestants are genuinely talented, having been vetted before auditions begin.
Health Tips and Vocal Care
Aside from the drama surrounding his co-star’s exit, Tom Jones has also been vocal about his health and vocal care regimen as he continues his long-standing career in music. He revealed that he uses tape to cover his mouth while sleeping to prevent drying out his throat, a tip he claims to have shared with his fellow judges. Jones said, “I was getting a dry throat, so I saw this was supposed to help… now I’m older, I don’t have to look good in bed.”
Tom Jones and LeAnn Rimes performing a duet on The Voice, showcasing both their talents during the show’s new season.
The Future of The Voice
The new lineup has brought renewed excitement to viewers, with early reports indicating a positive reception for the new coaches. Tom Fletcher and Danny Jones shared their enthusiasm about their roles, expressing their readiness to face the challenges ahead. LeAnn Rimes echoed these sentiments, stating, “I’m truly excited and grateful to take on the role of coach on The Voice UK.” She emphasized her commitment to nurturing emerging talent and connecting with fans.
Final Thoughts on Olly Murs’ Impact
While Olly Murs remains a beloved figure among fans of The Voice, his exit marks the end of an era for the show. Sir Tom Jones’ reflections highlight the emotional toll such decisions can take on individuals, reinforcing the notion that talent shows feature unique human stories behind the competition. As The Voice continues to evolve, viewers will undoubtedly be curious to see how the new judges bring their flair to the stage and what new talent they will discover.
The current season of The Voice is available to watch on the ITV Hub, allowing fans to follow the latest performances and judge interactions as the series unfolds.
If you want to learn more about the show and any updates, check out ITV’s official page.
