The Voice Australia is gearing up for a major return in late 2023, but fans are heartbroken their favourite country singer Keith Urban won’t be returning as a judge but rather an international pop singer will follow in his stead.
In the big red chair this season is none other than Jason Derulo, alongside fellow judges Guy Sebastian, Jessica Mauboy and British singer Rita Ora.
WATCH: The Voice’s Kaylee Bell sings Keith Urban-inspired song
Fans predicted the new judge would be Niall Horan, Adam Lambert, Dami Im or even former judge Ricky Martin.
After the announcement was shared on Instagram, fans took to the comment section to share their thoughts on Keith leaving.
“But we need a country artist as a coach. Keith Urban was the only reason I watched The Voice,” one fan wrote.
“NOOOOO KEITH”.
Another commented: “Where the hells Keith, he rocks!”.
“Very sad news [Keith] Urban is not continuing on the show,” one said.
Overall, fans were devastated to see Keith was being excluded but majority were loving the person of colour representation on this year’s judging panel.
Jason couldn’t be more thrilled to bring his own skills to the television series, in a statement from Seven he said: “I’ve always loved The Voice and Australia happens to be one of my favourite places in the world. I can’t wait to hear all the amazing talent down under!”
WATCH: Lachie Gill duets with Rita Ora during The Voice Australia grand finale
But Keith wasn’t the only Australian left out of the 2023 line-up as fans wondered why heartthrob Delta Goodrem wasn’t featuring on the new season despite not being a judge since 2020.
“I’m kinda sad for not seeing delta back on channel 7, i was really hoping to see her and rita working together,” one commented.
Another wrote: “Bring delta back”.
This article originally appeared on our sister site, Now To Love.
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