The Voice UK 2026 final drew criticism from ITV viewers within minutes of broadcast, with many complaining that the pre-recorded episode did not allow them to vote for the winner. The champion was instead decided by the studio audience present during filming.
The final four singers competed on Saturday night, October 31, to be crowned winner of The Voice UK 2026. Monique Nicholson-Porter represented team Kelly Rowland, while Naná Aldrin-Quaye was on team will.i.am. Frank Raven and Cate McHugh rounded out the finalists, representing team Danny Jones and Tom Fletcher, and team Sir Tom Jones respectively.
Fans criticise lack of public vote
As Emma Willis introduced the final, viewers voiced grievances over the episode not being broadcast live. Since the entire series was pre-recorded, viewers at home could not vote via phone, app or text to determine the winner, which drew significant criticism. The champion was instead decided by the studio audience present during the filming of the final.
One disgruntled viewer fumed on X: "Love The Voice but I still say the public should be involved. No live shows, studio audience only. It's not a patch on the show it used to be. I think the artists have been let down by the format."
Viewers question the format
Another commented: "What is the point of The Voice nowadays may I ask. They've not even had a live final for five years and there's no public interaction whatsoever. May as well not bother televising it."
A third questioned: "Did #TheVoiceUK used to have a live final? What's the actual point if we don't vote because the audience haven't followed their journey? Bit weird isn't it." Meanwhile, someone else said: "It's not in sync!!!!"
Praise for opening performance
Numerous other viewers were thrilled to watch the final, despite it not being broadcast live. Someone commended the coaches' opening performance, posting: "I don't usually watch #thevoice but that opening number was brilliant!" Another stated: "Brilliant opening number by the judges."
At the beginning of the programme, Emma announced: "By the end of the evening, one of our finalists will be crowned champion. And as well as signing a record deal with Universal Music Group, they'll also win an out of this world holiday with Universal Orlando resort, and £50,000 in cash. Wouldn't go amiss, would it? It's a prize definitely fit for a champion and it's down to our wonderful studio audience to decide who receives it. No pressure at all!"
Changes ahead for next series
The Voice UK finale marked the last appearances of presenter Emma and coaches Sir Tom Jones, Tom Fletcher and Danny Jones, following confirmation that all four stars will not return next series. Emma recently took on presenting duties for Strictly Come Dancing alongside Johannes Radebe and Josh Widdicombe. She will be succeeded by Alesha Dixon and Stacey Solomon next year, as the pair take charge for series 15.
Meanwhile, the iconic red chairs will welcome two musical heavyweights making their coaching debuts. Platinum-selling rap artist Aitch and global pop sensation Cheryl will embark on their search for the country's next great vocal talent during the forthcoming series. The Voice UK is available to stream on ITVX.
