The much-anticipated finale of The Voice Season 26, aired on December 10, provided an evening filled with powerful performances, emotional moments, and an intense rivalry among the finalists. As the night unfolded, fans eagerly awaited the announcement of the winner, but the outcome sparked a variety of reactions. Each of the final five competitors—Danny Joseph (Team Reba McEntire), Jeremy Beloate (Team Snoop Dogg), Sofronio Vasquez (Team Michael Bublé), Sydney Sterlace (Team Gwen Stefani), and Shye (Team Bublé)—brought their unique flair to the stage, leaving the audience in awe.
In the end, it was Sofronio Vasquez, a 32-year-old talent from the Philippines, who claimed victory. His emotional reaction to the win was evident as he celebrated this momentous achievement, marking the conclusion of a fiercely competitive season.
The Reaction: A Mixed Bag of Opinions
While Vasquez’s victory was celebrated by many, it sparked a wave of mixed reactions across social media. Fans who supported other contestants voiced their disappointment, with some expressing frustration over the season’s outcome. One fan stated, “I wanted Danny to win!” while another cheered, “I am so happy that you won. I knew you were gonna win from the first time I heard your voice. Congratulations, I am thrilled for you!”
On the other hand, several viewers voiced dissatisfaction with the season, calling it “disappointing.” One commenter expressed, “Didn’t really feel the need to watch the finale—it was already clear how it would end. Many talented singers were left behind before the live shows.” Others lamented the lack of excitement in the finale performances, stating that the season’s song choices lacked energy.
Despite the differing opinions, many applauded Vasquez’s performances, with supporters declaring, “You deserved it Sofronio! Congratulations!” However, some critics questioned his potential as a major artist, claiming the decision was the “wrong choice.”
A Filipino Victory and Meaningful Milestones
For Vasquez, his win was not only a personal triumph but also a historic moment. As the first Filipino to take home the coveted Voice trophy, Vasquez expressed his disbelief and gratitude. “It’s really crazy. I don’t know what to say, I don’t have strong English words,” he admitted. His victory was especially meaningful as he dedicated it to his family, stating, “It’s renewed hope for my family. I can gift them the best Christmas holiday.”
Michael Bublé, Vasquez’s coach, praised him for his resilience and the challenges he had overcome throughout the competition. Bublé noted that Vasquez’s growth as an artist was a testament to his talent and perseverance.
The Performances: A Showcase of Talent and Team Spirit
The grand finale also featured remarkable performances, not only from the finalists but also from the coaches and other special guests. Vasquez and Bublé delivered a heartfelt rendition of “Who’s Lovin’ You” by The Jackson 5, capturing the audience’s attention with their soulful performance. Meanwhile, Danny Joseph and Reba McEntire performed a beautiful, country-infused version of Ray Charles’s “You Don’t Know Me,” which earned praise from fellow coach Bublé.
Other notable performances included Shye and Bublé’s jazzy take on “Somethin’ Stupid” by Frank and Nancy Sinatra, and Beloate’s stirring rendition of “(Sittin’ on) The Dock of the Bay” by Otis Redding, which earned a standing ovation from the coaches. Sydney Sterlace and Gwen Stefani brought a playful energy to the stage with their rendition of Cat Stevens’ “Wild World.”
The finale also featured performances from Kelly Clarkson, Snoop Dogg and Sting, Dan + Shay, and Season 25 winner Asher HaVon, further showcasing the musical diversity and excitement of the season.
Coaches Reflect on the Journey
As the season wrapped up, the coaches shared their thoughts on The Voice Season 26. Gwen Stefani called her experience a “dream,” expressing her gratitude for the opportunity to be a part of the show. Reba McEntire encouraged the finalists to embrace their unique talents, telling them, “You possess a divine gift—embrace it!” Snoop Dogg hinted that he would be happy to return, while Bublé jokingly referred to his time on the show as “the most delightful job since Chuck E. Cheese.”
The camaraderie among the coaches added an extra layer of excitement to the season, making the finale an even more special experience for both the contestants and the audience.
The End of a Memorable Season
As Season 26 of The Voice concludes, the lively debates and passionate fan engagement will continue to echo in the days to come. While opinions on the winner and the season’s progression may vary, one thing is certain—The Voice has once again captivated viewers with its unforgettable moments, fierce competition, and celebration of musical talent.
