‘The Voice’ Coach Shakeup: Christina Aguilera + Cee Lo Out, Shakira + Usher In
The next season of 'The Voice' will have a much different dynamic. Coaches Christina Aguilera and Cee Lo Green won't be returning for the spring season, being replaced by Shakira and Usher!
Entertainment Weekly reports that the new lineup is part of an effort by NBC to develop an arsenal of artist coaches that they can pick and choose from at various times, since it's difficult to arrange all of the original coaches' tour schedules and recording sessions with one another in order to film.
“Having award-winning artists as coaches means they need to be able to tour,” executive producer Mark Burnett said. “Whether in the red chair or on tour, our coaches have their chairs for life. This is exactly why, after three seasons, we needed to allow them to rotate out so they can get on the road amongst their fans. Meanwhile, we’re incredibly excited to have singular artists like Usher and Shakira joining the fold.”
Aguilera will travel in support of her upcoming record. “Being a coach on 'The Voice' is a wonderful experience and the relationship amongst us all is like an extended family,” Aguilera said in a statement. “I am so proud of being part of the show from the beginning, all the work we’ve done, and proud of what the show stands for as a whole. As I have expressed since day one of the show, that I am a singer and performer first and I am so excited to get back to that love. Since this year NBC and 'The Voice' have decided to tape back-to-back seasons, requiring a full-year commitment, it is important for me to take season four off, allowing me to support my music that my fans have been waiting for — with the release of my new album Lotus on November 13. By pursuing my first passion of music during the break, I am also able to come back and offer even more to my team on 'The Voice' in the future.”
Green is pursuing similar goals during his time off, telling press, “First, thank you NBC for supporting my decision to take this season four hiatus! It says that I’m seen and respected as a complete artist and not just a cast member. I’m highly enthusiastic about focusing my undivided attention on my additional endeavors and interests like my upcoming solo album, new Goodie Mob album, Las Vegas residency Loberace, new memoir, and new NBC comedy. It’s great to also give a host of other talent the chance to experience what a joy it is to be part of what is truly the best show of them all, 'The Voice!'" he gushed. "I will return for season five and will be watching season four. NBC is home and as far as Usher and Shakira are concerned -- ‘mi casa su casa’.” So diplomatic!
Fans of Cee Lo and XTina, don't fret! The two original coaches are expected to come back for the fall season of the singing show juggernaut. We're excited to see how Shaki and Ursher mesh with Blake Shelton and Adam Levine!