After 12 years and nine victories, Blake Shelton has decided to step away from The Voice. In an emotional Instagram post from October 2022, Shelton shared the news that season 23 would be his last, expressing deep gratitude for his time on the show. He acknowledged the significant impact it has had on his life and career, noting, “This program has altered my life for the better in every manner, and it will always feel like home to me.” Shelton’s departure marks the end of an era for the show, and fans are left reflecting on his many memorable moments.
A Journey Filled with Triumphs and Transitions
Shelton’s time on The Voice has been marked by numerous accomplishments. With multiple chair turns and nine wins under his belt, he quickly became one of the show’s most beloved coaches. His journey on the program began in its inaugural season when he was joined by fellow coaches Adam Levine, Christina Aguilera, and CeeLo Green. Shelton’s dynamic partnership with Levine, which lasted until Levine’s exit in season 16, became a fan favorite. Over the years, the show saw various other artists step into the coach’s chair, including Nick Jonas, Shakira, and Gwen Stefani, Shelton’s wife, whom he met during his time on the show.
A Deep Appreciation for the The Voice Family
In his farewell message, Shelton didn’t just thank his fellow coaches and contestants, but he also expressed his gratitude to the entire crew behind the scenes. From the producers and writers to the musicians, caterers, and technical team, Shelton made it clear that The Voice was a collective effort. He emphasized that the people he worked with during his time on the show were, in his words, “the greatest.” This acknowledgment highlights how much he values the collaborative nature of the program, beyond just his own contributions.
Embracing Family Life
With his exit from The Voice, Shelton is now turning his attention to spending quality time with his family, particularly with Gwen Stefani and her children. After years of hectic touring schedules and travel, he is looking forward to slowing down and living a more relaxed lifestyle. In his own words, he humorously described his ideal evening as “throwing on his sweatpants at 6 p.m. and watching their favorite show, Ozark.” Shelton’s decision to prioritize family is a reflection of his desire to make up for lost time and avoid any future regrets about missed moments with loved ones.
The Future of Shelton’s Music Career
Although Shelton is stepping away from The Voice, his passion for music remains strong. He plans to continue exploring new avenues in his career, especially with the rapidly evolving country music scene. Shelton has expressed admiration for the young, talented country artists who are shaping the future of the genre, and he’s eager to see how his own musical journey will evolve. While he doesn’t yet know exactly what the future holds, Shelton’s love for music and creativity is clear, and he’s excited to see where it takes him next.
Moving On, But Not Saying Goodbye
Leaving The Voice was a tough decision for Shelton, especially considering the pivotal role the show has played in his career. The Voice was not just a job for Shelton; it was a platform that elevated him to new heights, both as an artist and a public figure. Though he initially considered leaving in 2020, particularly due to the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, he chose to remain until things normalized.
Shelton’s decision to part ways with the show now reflects his desire to explore new opportunities, while still cherishing the memories and achievements he gained throughout his time on The Voice. As he looks to the future, Shelton is content with taking a step back, focusing on his music, and seeing what comes next—whether that means pursuing new projects or simply taking some time to relax.
