Introduction
Sir Tom Jones Announces Permanent Move to the United States: “I Am Not Respected in Britain”
London, September 6, 2025 — In a revelation that stunned both fans and commentators, Sir Tom Jones has announced that he will permanently leave Britain to settle in the United States. The legendary Welsh singer, whose career has spanned more than six decades, declared during a recent interview that he feels “not respected in Britain,” sparking a storm of political and cultural debate across the UK.
A Shocking Statement From a National Icon
What began as a routine conversation about his upcoming projects quickly shifted into uncharted territory. Asked about his life in London, Jones stunned the interviewer by bluntly stating that he had decided to relocate across the Atlantic for good.
“I’ve given my life to music, to Britain, and to Wales,” Jones said, his voice steady but firm. “Yet I no longer feel respected in my own country. In America, I’ve always been welcomed, celebrated, and given space to just be myself. That is where I now belong.”
The remarks were immediately picked up by media outlets across the globe, turning what could have been a simple lifestyle choice into a headline-grabbing cultural moment.
From Pontypridd to the World
Born in Pontypridd, South Wales, Tom Jones rose from humble beginnings to global superstardom. With hits like “It’s Not Unusual,” “Delilah,” and “She’s a Lady,” he became one of the defining voices of the 20th century.
Throughout his career, Jones has been celebrated not only as a musician but as a cultural ambassador for Wales and the wider UK. His knighthood in 2006 cemented his status as a national treasure.
That a man so deeply associated with British identity would announce his departure from the country struck many as both shocking and symbolic.
Why America?
For decades, Jones has maintained homes both in the UK and the US. His long-running residencies in Las Vegas cemented his reputation across the Atlantic, while American audiences embraced his powerful voice and commanding stage presence.
Yet, in his statement, Jones made it clear that the move was not simply about sunshine or lifestyle. “America respects its entertainers in a way Britain often does not,” he said. “There, I’m valued for my work, not constantly judged by where I come from or how old I am.”
He did not elaborate further, but his words have already fueled speculation that the decision was tied to frustrations with the British media and political climate.
Political Ripples in Britain
Jones’ announcement quickly spilled over into political discourse. Several Welsh MPs expressed disappointment, framing his departure as a cultural loss. “Tom Jones is more than a singer; he is a symbol of Welsh pride,” one representative told the BBC. “That he feels disrespected here should make us reflect on how we treat our artists.”
Others were more blunt, accusing Jones of exaggerating his grievances. A Conservative MP suggested that his statement was “overly dramatic,” while cultural critics noted that Britain has long celebrated him with honors and tributes.
Still, the symbolism of a knighted cultural icon publicly declaring disillusionment with his homeland has proved difficult to ignore.
Reaction From Fans
Fans across both sides of the Atlantic reacted swiftly. In the UK, many expressed sadness and disbelief on social media. “Sir Tom has been the soundtrack of our lives. It breaks my heart to think he no longer feels at home here,” one fan wrote.
In the US, however, the mood was celebratory. “Welcome home, Tom!” read one viral post from a Las Vegas fan club. “We’ve always known he belongs here.”
Music journalists also pointed out that Jones has been performing more frequently in the United States in recent years, suggesting that his decision may have been building quietly for some time.
A Broader Question of Respect
The controversy has sparked a wider debate about how Britain treats its cultural icons, particularly aging performers. Some commentators argue that while American audiences often venerate their older artists, British culture can be more quick to sideline them.
“America has always had a way of honoring its legends — keeping them on stage, giving them platforms, celebrating their longevity,” said cultural historian Dr. Alice Morgan. “Britain, by contrast, sometimes seems more eager to chase the next big thing.”
Jones’ remarks, they say, highlight not just a personal decision, but a cultural critique.
What Comes Next for Jones
According to sources close to the singer, Jones plans to divide his time between Los Angeles and Las Vegas, with new performance residencies already in discussion. The Netflix documentary about his life, due to premiere later this year, will now take on added poignancy as a record of an artist redefining where he calls home.
At 85, Jones shows no signs of slowing down musically. “As long as I have a voice, I will sing,” he said in the same interview. “And America is where that voice will be heard the loudest.”
Conclusion: A Legend’s Bold Choice
Whether one views his move as a personal choice or a political statement, Sir Tom Jones’ decision to leave Britain marks a striking chapter in his storied life. For some, it is a lamentable loss of a cultural treasure; for others, it is a reminder that even legends must find places where they feel valued.
What remains certain is that the boy from Pontypridd, who conquered the world with his voice, continues to live life on his own terms — and that his next song will be sung on American soil.