Blake Shelton has announced he's leaving The Voice after serving as a coach for over a decade.

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NBC has confirmed The Voice will return in Spring 2023 and Blake will be sitting in one of the four red chairs.

But the show's upcoming 23rd season will be Blake's last.

"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," Blake said in a statement.

"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," he quipped.

The country star's departure will be a major change for the NBC reality singing competition given he's been a mainstay coach since Season 1 of The Voice debuted back in 2011.

Blake was one of The Voice's original coaches alongside Adam Levine, Christina Aguilera, and CeeLo Green, and he's watched many coaches come and go over the years -- including Kelly Clarkson, Ariana Grande, Nick Jonas, and more.

Blake said in his statement he's developed "lifelong bonds" with The Voice host Carson Daly, who will be returning for Season 23, as well as his fellow coaches over the years, including his wife Gwen Stefani.

Eight The Voice winners have hailed from "Team Blake" since the show's inception, and he's also coached 15 artists whose songs have hit No. 1 on the iTunes Top Songs chart.

"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," Blake gushed.

"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 posted the same statement on his Instagram and Twitter accounts, and kind farewell messages poured in from The Voice family and fans around the world.

"I am so proud of you and so blessed to have found u. Your talent brings joy to the hearts of so many people and I am so lucky to be part of ur life's journey," Gwen commented on the Instagram posting.

And John Legend tweeted in response to Blake's statement, "You will be missed, brother! What an incredible run!"

Blake replied to John on Twitter, "It's been an absolute blast my friend."

The Voice is currently airing its Blind Auditions for Season 22 with Blake serving as a coach alongside Gwen, John Legend, and Camila Cabello.

The previous season of The Voice was the No. 1 unscripted show for the third year in a row.




About The Author: Elizabeth Kwiatkowski

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