Shakira will be coaching for two when she replaces Christina Aguilera on The Voice early next year.
ADVERTISEMENT
The 35-year-old singer -- who will replace Aguilera as a coach on the fourth season of The Voice -- has confirmed she is pregnant and expecting her first child with boyfriend Gerard Pique.
"As some of you may know, Gerard and I are very happy awaiting the arrival of our first baby!" Shakira announced in a Wednesday afternoon posting on her website.
"At this time we have decided to give priority to this unique moment in our lives and postpone all the promotional activities planned over the next few days. This means I will not be able to be a part of the iHeartRadio Music Festival... this weekend... I'd like to thank Clear Channel and my fans for their constant love and understanding. Big kiss!"
Shakira and Pique, a 25-year-old professional soccer player who plays for Spain's FC Barcelona team, began dating in early 2011. The baby will be the first child for both.
ADVERTISEMENT
NBC announced Shakira and Usher will replace Aguilera and fellow The Voice coach Cee Lo Green as coaches on the fourth edition of The Voice on Monday.
Remaining The Voice coaches Adam Levine and Blake Shelton will both return for the fourth season, according to the network.
"We are thrilled to welcome Usher and Shakira to The Voice. The addition of these popular iconic artists continues the tradition established by Christina, CeeLo, Adam and Blake," NBC Entertainment chairman Robert Greenblatt said.
NBC cited The Voice's new twice-a-year broadcast schedule as the reason why Aguilera and Green -- who are both expected to return to the show down the road -- will be taking the reality singing competition's fourth edition off.
About The Author: Steven Rogers