The Voice is getting a coaching shake-up in Season 16. NBC announced John Legend signed on to be a coach in the new season on Thursday. Legend will replace award-winning singer Jennifer Hudson.
Fans will still get to see Hudson, who joined as a coach during Season 13, on the show in the upcoming Season 15, set to premiere on NBC on September 24. Legend will take his seat in one of the show's notable red swivel chairs when the show returns in the winter of 2019.
"I'm thrilled to join the coaches of The Voice. 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," Legend wrote in an Instagram announcement on Thursday.
The 39-year-old singer was recently awarded an Emmy for his role in Jesus Christ Superstar, making him the not only the first African American to join the renowned EGOT club (winners of Emmy, Grammy, Oscar and Tony awards) but also the youngest. Calling him a "one-of-a-kind musician and producer," NBC President Paul Telegy said Legend's skills were "beyond measure," leading him to be a perfect fit for The Voice.
"His multi-dimensional career and incredible talents provide a repertoire that will excite and inspire our artists. This coaching panel is sure to ignite Season 16," Telegy said in a statement.
Legend will join coaches Kelly Clarkson, Adam Levine and Blake Shelton. Clarkson, one of the newest coaches, joined The Voice back during Season 14. She previously appeared on the show in Season 2 and Season 13 as a part-time adviser. Meanwhile, Levin and Shelton are the longest running coaches on The Voice. They joined the show since back in its inception in 2011.
Country star Kelsea Ballerini also signed on with The Voice as a coach for Season 15. The singer will serve as a mentor on web series spinoff, Comeback Stage, which will follow six artists as they attempt to land a spot on the main show. Contenders will be comprised of contestants who fail to make it through to the Season 15 blind auditions. The winner of the Comeback Stage will be advanced to The Voice's top 13 and will appear on the main stage during the competition in November.
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