The Voice UK 2026 drew to a close on Saturday night, but viewers were quick to complain within minutes of the final getting under way. Hundreds of budding singers auditioned for this year's competition, yet only four remained by the finale.
Following a tense semi-final, Kelly opted to put forward Monique Nicholson-Porter, while Tom Fletcher and Danny Jones and will.i.am selected Frank Raven and Naná Aldrin-Quaye respectively. Cate McHugh completed the line-up, having been picked by Sir Tom.
Viewers frustrated by pre-recorded format
The final four contestants went head-to-head on Saturday night (October 31) to be crowned The Voice UK 2026 champion. However, as Emma Willis opened the final, ITV viewers quickly voiced grievances over the episode not being broadcast live.
Because the entire series was pre-recorded, those watching at home could not cast votes via phone, app or text to determine the winner, prompting a wave of criticism. The victor was instead decided by the studio audience present during the filming of the finale, according to the Mirror.
Public vote absence draws criticism
One disgruntled viewer posted 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."
Another remarked: "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 added: "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." Someone else said: "It's not in sync!!!!"
Prize details and coach changes
Despite the pre-recorded format, many viewers were still thrilled to tune in for the finale. One fan praised the coaches' opening performance, writing: "I don't usually watch #thevoice but that opening number was brilliant!" Another echoed the sentiment, adding: "Brilliant opening number by the judges."
At the beginning of the episode, 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?"
She added: "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!"
The finale marked the final appearances of presenter Emma alongside coaches Sir Tom Jones, Tom Fletcher and Danny Jones, after it was confirmed that all four will not return for the 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 on The Voice, who will take charge when series 15 begins.
Meanwhile, the iconic red chairs will welcome two notable musical talents making their coaching debuts. Platinum-selling rap artist Aitch and global pop icon Cheryl will embark on their search for Britain's next great vocal talent during the forthcoming series. The Voice UK is available to stream on ITVX.
