Blake Shelton/Instagram
Blake Shelton, the last original Coach on The Voice, announced today that he is leaving NBC’s The Voice after next season.
“I’ve been wrestling with this for a while and I’ve decided that it’s time for me to step away from ‘The Voice’ after season 23,” Shelton said. “This show has changed my life in every way for the better and it will always feel like home to me. It’s been a hell of a ride over these 12 years of chair turns and I want to thank everyone at ‘The Voice’ from NBC, every producer, the writers, musicians, crew and catering people, you are the best. It takes a lot of work, passion, and adult beverages (Ha!) to pull off a live show twice a week. I’ve made lifelong bonds with Carson and every single one my fellow coaches over the years, including my wife, Gwen Stefani! I have to give a huge shoutout to the singers – the ‘Voices’ who come on this stage season after season and amaze us with their talent and a special thanks to those who chose me to be their coach. Lastly, it’s about y’all, the fans, who watch and support these artists, us coaches and everyone at ‘The Voice’ chasing their dreams. It wouldn’t happen without you!”
I never thought he would leave. But I guess now that he is married, it is time for him to stay home, raise his spouse’s kids and take care of the farm.
His departure makes you wonder if the show can continue without him. Especially since the last few new Coaches have not been that exciting. This season they added Camila Cabello, and next season Chance the Rapper and Niall Horan will join Shelton and Kelly Clarkson in the big red chairs.
It really sounds like they might want to give the singing competition its swan song unless they can woo Adam Levine back like he woos girls in their DMs. Too soon?
