Why did Blake Shelton leave The Voice?

BLAKE SHELTON appeared in every season of The Voice since the show kicked off in 2011.

Season 24 of The Voice, which premieres on September 25, 2023, will be the first season in the show’s history without Blake Shelton.

Blake Shelton's last time on the competition series was season 23
Blake Shelton’s last time on the competition series was season 23Credit: Getty Images – Getty

When did Blake Shelton leave The Voice?

In October 2022, Blake Shelton confirmed that season 23 of The Voice would be his last.

The finale episode of The Voice season 23 aired on NBC on May 23, 2023.

The former judge said he wouldn’t return and indicated that he’s had the idea on his mind for a while.

Former One Direction member Niall Horan, Blake’s hubby and vocalist Gwen Stefani, John Legend, and Reba McEntire took over the judge’s panel on season 24.

What did Blake Shelton say about leaving The Voice?

In a statement, the country singer said it felt like the right time to move on.

He said: “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.

“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 shout out 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!”

However, a source told Radar Online that the former judge was suffering from burnout.

“He loves being the star of The Voice, but there’s so much drama going on behind the scenes,” the source claimed. “It just all became overwhelming for him.”

What did fans say about Blake Shelton’s exit?

Fans of the show have previously shared their distress at the thought of Blake leaving the show.

Gwen Stefani will serve as a judge on season 24 of The Voice

Gwen Stefani will serve as a judge on season 24 of The VoiceCredit: Photo by: Trae Patton/NBC via Getty Images – Getty
One person wrote: “The Voice is unquestionably the best competition show.

“When Adam Levine left the show, I mourned; but if Blake Shelton leaves, I’ll stop watching. HE is The Voice!”

A second one commented: “Blake Shelton is the best thing that ever happen on The Voice, wouldn’t watch it if he leaves.”

And a third one shared: “Please don’t leave The Voice, Blake! It would be boring without you! You make the show!”