Photo Credit: EJ Hersom / CC by 2.0
Country star Blake Shelton has announced he will be exiting his role as a coach after 23 seasons of ‘The Voice.’
The next season of the singing competition show will be Shelton’s last after more than 12 years. “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,” the country star wrote on Instagram, announcing the decision. “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 of 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!”
Blake Shelton began coaching on season one of ‘The Voice’ alongside Adam Levine, Christina Aguilera, and CeeLo Green. Shelton coached together with the Maroon 5 frontman up until Levine’s exit from the show in Season 16. Since then, several stars have filled in on the role, including Miley Cyrus, Shakira, Usher, Nick Jonas, and others. Team Shelton has earned eight wins in the show’s total history.