Shelton is the only original coach to have appeared in all seasons since the show began in 2011.
John legend opens about Blake Shelton’s shocking decision to leave The Voice.
Earlier this week, on Oct. 12, the country music legend announced he was leaving the reality series. Shelton is the only original coach to have appeared in all seasons since the show began in 2011.
Not only that, he has the most wins with eight wins. NBC also said he has coached 15 artists whose songs have reached #1 on the iTunes Top Songs chart.
Legend addressed Shelton’s departure in an interview with ET, calling the 46-year-old star the “heart” and “soul” of the singing competition.
However, Legend understood Shelton’s desire to drop out, noting, “Well, you know, he’s been doing the show for 22 seasons, it’ll be 23 when he’s done, and you can’t do something forever.”
“We will miss him though. He’s been the heart and soul and anchor of the show for a long time and he’s a friend of mine and I really enjoy working with him,” he added.
Shelton’s original announcement was very heartfelt. “This show has changed my life for the better in every way and it will always feel like home to me. It’s been an amazing ride over these 12 years of chair rotations and I want to thank everyone at NBC’s The Voice, every producer, writer, musician, crew and catering people, you are the best. It takes a lot of work, passion and adult drinks (Ha!) to put together a live show twice a week,” he said at the time.
The upcoming 23rd season will be Shelton’s last. The current coaches – legend, Camila cabelloand Shelton’s wife, Gwen Stefani– will all leave after this season.
Joining Shelton for his final run will be Chance of the rappers, Niall Horanand returning coach Kelly Clarkson.
The story goes on
The Voice airs Monday and Tuesday nights at 8 p.m. ET/PT on NBC.
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