Music / TV

‘The Voice’: Why Is John Legend Replacing Jennifer Hudson for Season 16?

Jennifer Hudson will be leaving 'The Voice' and John Legend will replace her for Season 16. Find out why and what else to expect.

by Nicole Weaver

Published on October 4, 2018

2 min read

What does one do once they become an EGOT? For John Legend the answer is to become a coach on The Voice. This means we’re losing one of the coaches that are currently on the show. Find out more about what’s to come in Season 16 of the show.

John Legend is replacing Jennifer Hudson on The Voice

According to The Hollywood Reporter, John Legend has signed on to be a coach on Season 16 of the show. Jennifer Hudson will be the one not returning to the show. The rest of the panel will stay the same with Adam Levine, Blake Shelton, and Kelly Clarkson as the other coaches.

He previously was a battle advisor in Season 12

The future coach isn’t completely new to the show. He was previously a battle advisor for Team Adam back in Season 12. He also mentions this in his statement about joining the show as a coach.

“I’m thrilled to join the coaches of The Voice,” said Legend in a statement according to The Hollywood Reporter. “I’ve been a guest and mentor on the show multiple times, and I’m so excited to discover talented singers and help them make the most of their gift. I hope the world is ready for #TeamJL.”

Paul Telegdy, president of the alternative and reality group at NBC also gave a statement on why Legend was chosen to fill the chair. “John Legend is a one-of-a-kind musician and producer with remarkable skills that are beyond measure,” he said. “His multidimensional career and incredible talents provide a repertoire that will excite and inspire our artists. This coaching panel is sure to ignite season 16.”

Jennifer Hudson recently released new music so she might tour

Jennifer Hudson and Blake Shelton on *The Voice* | NBC

It’s unknown why exactly Hudson won’t be returning to the show because she has yet to make a statement. But it’s not the first time she left only to come back. She previously has done so to reappear on The Voice UK.

She has recently released new music with her single, “Burden Down.” She performed the new song on the Dec. 12 episode of Season 15 so she might plan to tour after the show.

The good thing is that there aren’t any reports of any recent drama on the show so chances are this is just trying to keep things fresh. Season 16 of The Voice will launch in the spring.

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