Danny Jones and Tom Fletcher have quit their roles as judges on The Voice UK after just one series, according to reports. The McFly duo joined the ITV competition last year as the first ever coaching pair, replacing Olly Murs and Anne-Marie. Their departure has left ITV scrambling to find two new judges for series 15.
McFly duo exit due to scheduling conflicts
The Sun reported that the McFly stars have left the double chair on the ITV1 panel, despite bosses hoping to retain them for series 15. A source told the publication: 'Tom and Danny loved their time on the show, but a full series is a huge commitment.'
'Tom is back and forth from New York, working on taking Paddington: The Musical over there from London’s West End — and he’s also in and out of the studio writing the eighth McFly album with Danny. As much as they would have liked to return to The Voice, sadly it’s impossible.'
ITV declined to comment on the story when contacted by Metro.
Series 14 already filmed, series 15 production in doubt
The release date for series 14 has not yet been confirmed, but production is reportedly complete, meaning episodes have been filmed. Filming for series 15 was due to start this autumn, but the timeline is now uncertain. The Voice has not officially announced the coaching panel for the upcoming series.
Longtime host Emma Willis, who has fronted the show since 2014, is also a question mark for series 15 after landing a role on Strictly Come Dancing. Willis will return for series 14, but her future beyond that is unclear as she prepares to co-host Strictly with Johannes Radebe and Josh Widdicombe this autumn on the BBC.
Kelly Rowland joins panel for series 14
There is already a change on the coaching panel for series 14, following LeAnn Rimes’ announcement last year that she would exit the show to focus on her US career. Destiny’s Child star Kelly Rowland will take her place. In a statement, Rowland said she was 'looking forward to working with the excellent and passionate coaches the show is known for.'
'I can’t wait to hear all the new talent and to go to battle for my team. Let’s go!' she added. The remaining coaches for series 14 include Sir Tom Jones and will.i.am.
Metro also contacted Danny Jones and Tom Fletcher for comment. The Voice will return for series 14 on ITV1 and ITVX.
