ITV has confirmed the return of The Voice UK with a new judge and a “game-changing” twist. Kelly Rowland joins the panel, and the competition introduces a 'Rewind' button that lets coaches change their minds during the Blind Auditions.
New coach and returning favorites
Kelly Rowland steps into the red chair for the first time, replacing LeAnn Rimes, who left after one season. Returning coaches include Sir Tom Jones, will.i.am, and Tom Fletcher and Danny Jones, who coached 2024 winner AVA.
Emma Willis will also return as presenter, with ITV teasing that she’ll be “steering the show through every emotional high note, electrifying performance, and dramatic chair turn”.
The 'Rewind' button twist
ITV has confirmed a new twist: during the Blind Auditions, each coach gets one chance to hit a 'Rewind' button and bring back an act that left without a chair turn. ITV teased: “If a coach realises they have made a mistake, they can hit Rewind, bring the act back, and offer them a place on their team. However, with only one Rewind available to each coach, they must choose their moment wisely. For an act who thought their journey was over, it could change everything…”
Kelly Rowland's excitement
In a statement, Kelly said: “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!”
Sir Tom Jones called Kelly “an amazing artist with a huge amount of experience to share”, while will.i.am said she will “take this season to the dopest level possible”. ITV’s director of entertainment and daytime commissioning, Katie Rawcliffe, said Kelly would “bring fresh insights and even more energy to the panel”.
Previous coach LeAnn Rimes
LeAnn Rimes joined The Voice UK for its 13th season, but later quit, reportedly “to focus on her career in the States”. She had earlier said about the show: “I love connecting with all of the artists, finding songs they connect to, and creating these performances. For me, it’s not just about creating performances but creating moments that are really powerful.”
Though she hadn't addressed her exit at the time, she shared on Instagram: “Thank you all for making April full of love, laughter, and connection. May, I am SO ready for you and the exciting new journey I am about to embark on! Stay tuned.” She also posted on X: “Uh…. Making a very big life/career decision this morning. Something completely new and different. Something a bit scary and out of my comfort zone… I think I have to say yes! Maybe.”
The Voice UK is coming soon to ITV1, ITVX, STV and STV Player.
