Will.i.am knew Sir Tom Jones would return to 'The Voice'.

Will.i.am

Will.i.am

The 76-year-old singer was dramatically dropped from the singing show's judging panel last year but, although many people thought he'd turn his back on the series for good after his poor treatment, the Black Eyed Peas singer was convinced he'd accept the offer once the programme moved to ITV.

Speaking to Digital Spy, Will.i.am - who has been on the panel since the show started in 2012 - said: "Tom, that's like my heart. I love that man. I missed him that one year, so I'm glad that I get to hang out with him again.

"No (I wasn't worried he'd refused the offer from ITV). Tom's smart. It's going to be cool being back with him."

The 41-year-old singer and the 'Sex Bomb' hitmaker will be joined on the new series, which will hit screens in January, by former 'American Idol' winner Jennifer Hudson and Gavin Rossdale and he is so "excited" about the new line-up.

Tom, Jennifer and Gavin will replace last year's coaches Paloma Faith, Ricky Wilson and Boy George, while Emma Willis has been brought back to host the forthcoming series.

Tom previously admitted he had "no warning" that he was getting the boot from 'The Voice' after series four.

He said at the time: "I was told yesterday, with no consultation or conversation of any kind, that I would not be returning.

"In good faith, as part of the team, I'd put the time in my schedule to be involved in Series 5, as I've done for the last 4 years. I've supported the show and the BBC since the beginning. 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."

For the past five years, the show has aired on the BBC but it'll now swap across to rival channel ITV after bosses snapped it up for an impressive price earlier this year.

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