Jennifer Hudson announced on Twitter Friday (Sept 26) that she will NOT be returning for a third season as a coach on The Voice UK. Taking her place will be pop singer/songwriter Meghan Trainor.
“Hey y’all! I’m sad to share that I won’t be able to join my friends in the red chair for @thevoiceuk this season due to filming commitments here in the States,” the American Idol season 3 alum writes. “I sure will miss my UK family, but I’ll be back soon for ‘Cats’ and ‘Respect’! Throw some shoes for me in the mean time.”
Hey y’all! I’m sad to share that I won’t be able to join my friends in the red chair for @thevoiceuk this season due to filming commitments here in the States. I sure will miss my UK family, but I’ll be back soon for ‘Cats’ and ‘Respect’! Throw some shoes for me in the mean time.
— Jennifer Hudson (@IAMJHUD) September 26, 2019
The Voice UK will start taping soon, for a season that kicks off in January on ITV. The network confirms Jennifer’s exit, while announcing that Meghan will indeed join veteran coaches will.i.am, Tom Jones and Olly Murs on the panel. Emma Willis will return as host.
“I can’t wait for the next series of The Voice, especially to hear all of the incredible talent that will no doubt be walking onto that stage,” Emma said.
“I absolutely adore Jennifer and will massively miss her,” Emma added. “However, Meghan is a fab choice to add to the coaching line up and it’s always exciting when a new coach arrives on the show.”
The singer joined The Voice UK in 2017, winning her first season with Mo Adeniran. Jennifer also coached on two seasons of The Voice in the US, including season 13 and 15 in the Fall 2017 and 2018.