Reba McEntire has hit back at rumors she's leaving The Voice, calling the stories "clickbait."
The 68-year-old singer joined NBC's singing competition as a coach in May, following the exit of fellow country star Blake Shelton's exit.
The "Fancy" singer had already appeared as a Mega Mentor in Season 23, helping contestants battle their way to the knockout rounds, and as a Battle Advisor to Shelton's team in Season 1. Season 24 was her first time as one of The Voice's four core judges, after previously turning down the role in 2011.
Rumors that McEntire is "unhappy" behind the scenes and planning to leave the show have been circling since October. The Grammy winner shut down the claims on social media, ahead of The Voice's 25th season on Sunday.
"Please do not click on any articles that say I am leaving The Voice. This is not true," McEntire said on X, formerly Twitter.
"These are fake websites to lure people in with clickbait where they claim I have a company to sell weight loss gummy products. This is false. I do not sell or promote any type of gummy product."
Newsweek has reached out to Reba McEntire for comment via email.
Fans were relieved that the country music sensation is staying put.
"Oh you made me so happy!" commented Lisa Carlisle.
"Queen knows all about media lies," said Ariadna Jacob.
"I just wait to hear stuff from you or your team!! Glad you addressed it though," wrote Lynn.
"I hate that you have to deal with stuff like this!" said Lana Merz.
"This is so sad, that people have to rain on your parade," agreed Linda Lucas.
"You said you are having fun so I would definitely not believe anything anybody says unless it comes directly from you," said Linda. "You are such a great Coach. Go get em this season and enjoy."
"I won't watch The Voice unless your a coach on it!" wrote Regina Blanton. "I am so much more happier now and I can't wait for The Voice season 25."
While McEntire has confirmed her return, former judges Niall Horan and Gwen Stefani will not be taking part in the new season. Country music stars Dan+Shay and Chance the Rapper will be taking their place, helping to coach 10 potential superstars—down from the usual 14.
R&B icon John Legend will be back as a judge and coach, as will Carson Daly, who has hosted the show since 2011.
The Voice Season 25 premieres on Monday, February 26, at 8:00 p.m. ET on NBC.
Uncommon Knowledge
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Newsweek is committed to challenging conventional wisdom and finding connections in the search for common ground.
About the writer
Sophie is a Newsweek Pop Culture and Entertainment Reporter based in Lincoln, UK. Her focus is reporting on film and ... Read more
