Blake Shelton has announced that season 23 of The Voice will be his last, ending a remarkable 23-season run on the show.
In a recent interview with Entertainment Tonight, John Legend shared how much he’ll miss working alongside Shelton.
“He’s been doing the show for 22 seasons, it’ll be 23 when he’s done, and you can’t do something forever,” Legend said. “We’re going to miss him though—he’s been the heart, the anchor, and the soul of the show for a long time. He’s a friend of mine, and I really enjoy working with him. We’re all going to miss him.”
Legend also revealed that he won’t be appearing on Shelton’s final season, explaining that he plans to take season 23 off to focus on his growing family, a new album, and a bit of touring. “I’ll be back on The Voice, just not this coming season,” he added.
Shelton shared the news of his departure on Instagram, writing, “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. This show has changed my life in every way for the better, and it will always feel like home to me.” He gave a heartfelt shoutout to producers, writers, musicians, crew, and even catering staff, joking, “It takes a lot of work, passion, and adult beverages (Ha!) to pull off a live show twice a week.”
The country star reflected on the lifelong bonds he’s made with his fellow coaches, including Gwen Stefani, whom he married. Shelton has been a coach since season one alongside Adam Levine, Christina Aguilera, and CeeLo Green. Over the years, other stars like Miley Cyrus, Shakira, Usher, Nick Jonas, Ariana Grande, Pharrell Williams, and Jennifer Hudson have also filled the red chairs.
Shelton has won the competition eight times and is the only original coach to appear in every season of The Voice.
For season 23, Kelly Clarkson will return to the coaches’ panel after leaving in season 21, while Chance the Rapper and Niall Horan will debut as new coaches. A premiere date for the new season has not yet been announced, but viewers can catch season 22 on NBC Mondays and Tuesdays at 8 p.m. ET, featuring Legend, Shelton, Stefani, and first-time coach Camila Cabello.