The Voice UK returned for its 14th series tonight (August 22), with Kelly Rowland making her debut as a coach. The American pop star and former Destiny's Child member steps in to replace LeAnn Rimes after her single season stint.
Rowland's return to UK talent shows
Kelly Rowland previously served as a judge on The X Factor UK during the eighth series in 2011, where she mentored the Girls category, and later judged the third season of The X Factor USA in 2013. Fans immediately took to social media to celebrate her arrival, praising her return to UK talent shows.
One said: "Love seeing Kelly Rowland on The Voice UK - need to remember she basically created Little Mix on X Factor". Another said: "I remember when Kelly Rowland was an X factor judge. She really is having her full circle moment". A third added: "Queen Kelly Rowland on my tv screen as a judge? I haven't seen this since I was six I'm giddy".
Coaches and new features
Emma Willis is back to anchor the show, alongside returning coaches Will.i.am, Sir Tom Jones, and the double-chair duo of McFly's Danny Jones and Tom Fletcher. Expressing her excitement at joining the show, Rowland said in a statement: "I am excited to join The Voice UK as a coach, and am looking forward to working with the excellent and passionate coaches the show is known for."
"I can't wait to hear all the new talent and to go to battle for my team. Let's go!" Her fellow coaches offered warm welcomes, with Sir Tom praising her vast industry experience and Will.i.am promising she will take the season "to the dopest level possible."
Series details
Speaking about the new series, Emma Willis said: "We're back! Kelly Rowland has joined us and she's just incredible. She's everything you'd want from a coach. I was in awe of her! Then we've got the other brilliant coaches who work so well together." With each team capped at just eight spots, competition among the coaches for this season will be fierce.
This series also introduces a new "Rewind Button," allowing judges a second chance to reclaim an act they initially passed on. The Voice UK airs Saturday nights on ITV1 and STV, with streaming available on ITVX and STV Player.
