The star constellation is shifting at The Voice.
R&B
star Usher and Latin pop singer Shakira will join the NBC singing
competition as coaches in the spring, taking the place of Christina
Aguilera and Cee Lo Green, who will take that cycle off. Aguilera is
releasing a new album and going on tour, while Green is developing new
music and a scripted series for NBC based on his life.
Current coaches Adam Levine and Blake Shelton will be back for Season 4.
"We are thrilled to welcome Usher and Shakira to The Voice.
The addition of these popular iconic artists continues the tradition
established by Christina, Cee Lo, Adam and Blake," NBC Entertainment
chairman Robert Greenblatt said in a statement. "Doing two back-to-back
cycles of this show requires a tremendous amount of time, and we are
happy to accommodate the commitments made by Christina and CeeLo. The
participants on our show benefit from our coaches' expertise and their
continued success in the music business allows for significant new
contributions to the contestants when they return."
Both Aguilera and Green offered comments, too.
"Being a coach on The Voice
is a wonderful experience and the relationship amongst us all is like
an extended family," Aguilera said. "As I have expressed since day one
of the show, that I am a singer and performer first and I am so excited
to get back to that love. Since this year NBC and The Voice have
decided to tape back-to-back seasons, requiring a full-year commitment,
it is important for me to take Season 4 off, allowing me to support my
music that my fans have been waiting for."
Green
said, "I'm highly enthusiastic about focusing my undivided attention on
my additional endeavors and interests. . . . I will return for Season
5 and will be watching Season 4. NBC is home, and as far as Usher and
Shakira are concerned -- 'mi casa su casa.' "
Be sure to catch The Voice Monday and Tuesday nights on WTLV-NBC 12.
USA Today