Blake Shelton’s time on The Voice has come to an end.
Blake Shelton’s stint as a coach on The Voice has ended after an astounding 12-year run on the renowned NBC singing competition.
Shelton won nine times throughout his time on the show, making an indelible stamp on it. He made his exit public in October 2022, confirming his decision to leave The Voice after season 23 via an Instagram post.
“I’ve been grappling with this decision for a while,” Shelton wrote, expressing his heartfelt thoughts. This program has significantly impacted my life and will always have a special place in my heart.”
“These 12 years of chair turns have been an incredible ride,” he concluded, “and I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to everyone at The Voice, including NBC, the talented producers, writers, musicians, crew members, and even the catering staff.” You are all unquestionably the best in the business.”
Shelton began his coaching career in the program’s first season alongside other coaches, Adam Levine, Christina Aguilera, and CeeLo Green. He and Adam Levine split coaching duties for several seasons, forming a dynamic partnership.
When Adam Levine left the program in season 16, Shelton welcomed new celebrity coaches such as Nick Jonas, Shakira, and, eventually, his wife, Gwen Stefani, whom he met on the show.
While the most recent season witnessed the return of Kelly Clarkson as a coach and newcomers Chance the Rapper and Niall Horan, viewers couldn’t help but wonder why Shelton was leaving The Voice.
Shelton cited a desire to spend more time with his wife, Gwen Stefani, and their family as the driving force behind his decision.
In a December 2022 cover story, Shelton reflected on their years of intensive traveling, touring, and professional commitments, saying, “Gwen and I have spent the first half of our lives on the go.”
We now treasure the simple pleasures of putting on sweats at 6 p.m. and binge-watching our favorite shows like Ozark. That is our current way of life, and we adore it.”
Shelton’s priorities in life have turned toward his family, particularly his stepchildren. “The only thing I would regret leaving my profession at this point is missing out on the more significant moments in life, which revolve around our children,” he said. It’s no longer about me, and it never will be.”
While Shelton’s priority would be his family, he also stressed his commitment to his singing career. Taking a break from The Voice will allow him to think about his future musical endeavors and make an album that truly speaks to him.
“It would be like losing a piece of myself if I gave up music.” “I can’t live without it,” Shelton stated emphatically. He saw the quickly changing face of country music and the enormous potential developing in the business.
Shelton is looking forward to following these changes and occasionally releasing new music. His time away from The Voice will allow him to delve deeper into his craft and select which path he wants to take.
Shelton has moved into other creative pursuits besides music, such as his game show, Barmageddon, which he co-created with The Voice host Carson Daly. Shelton isn’t rushing into new commitments but remains open to future opportunities that come his way.
“Some people say to me, ‘You’re not leaving The Voice to sit around,’” he joked. I’m not lying, but I’m open to new ideas. I have a copy of Carmageddon.
