Blake Shelton has officially announced his departure from NBC’s Emmy-winning singing competition show ‘The Voice’ after 23 seasons as a coach. The 46-year-old Shelton took to social media to share the news, saying in a statement posted on Instagram: “I’ve been wrestling with this for a while and I’ve decided that it’s time for me to step away from ‘The Voice’ after next season. This show has changed my life in every way for the better and it will always feel like home to me. It’s been a hell of a ride over these 12 years of chair turns and I want to thank everyone at ‘The Voice’ from NBC, every producer, the writers, musicians, crew and catering people, you are the best. It takes a lot of work, passion, and adult beverages (Ha!) to pull off a live show twice a week. I’ve made lifelong bonds with Carson [Daly] and every single one of my fellow coaches over the years, including my wife Gwen Stefani! I have to give a huge shoutout to the singers – the “Voices,’ who come on this stage season after season and amaze us with their talent and a special thanks to those who chose me to be their coach.” He concluded his statement by saying, “Lastly, it’s about y’all, the fans, who watch and support these artists, us coaches and everyone at The Voice who are chasing their dreams.”

Shelton has been a mainstay since the show’s inception, holding the title for the longest running coach. He has earned the most overall wins on The Voice with eight wins under his belt; and he’s also coached 15 artists whose songs have hit No. 1 on the iTunes Top Songs chart. Shelton’s announcement came shortly after The Voice announced its Season 23 coaches. Shelton will be joined by Kelly Clarkson, Niall Horan and Chance The Rapper on the 2023 season next spring.

Fans can watch Shelton on the current Season 22 of The Voice airing on NBC every Monday and Tuesday at 8/7c, along with fellow coaches Camila Cabello, John Legend, and wife Gwen Stefani.

Blake Shelton Announces He Is Stepping Away From ‘The Voice’ After Next Season

Editorial credit: Kathy Hutchins / Shutterstock.com