John Legend will miss Blake Shelton’s presence on ‘The Voice’: “He’s a friend of mine”

John Legend will miss Blake Shelton’s presence on ‘The Voice’: “He’s a friend of mine”
Tyler Golden/NBC

The coaches on The Voice are known for ribbing each other on camera, so when Blake Shelton announced that he’s leaving the show after season 23, fans might’ve expected his fellow coaches to get their light-hearted digs in. The 22nd season of The Voice is currently underway.

But John Legend had sweeter words to share: Speaking to ET Online, the pop superstar applauded Blake’s lengthy tenure at The VoiceAfter he finishes next season, Blake will have been on the show for 23 consecutive seasons — the longest stint of any coach.

“You can’t do something forever. We’re gonna miss him, though. He’s been the heart and the anchor and the soul of the show for a long time,” John says. “And he’s a friend of mine, and I really enjoy working with him. We’re all gonna miss him.”

The current season of The Voice marks the last time the two men will serve as coaches, as John is sitting out the upcoming 23rd season. “But I’ll be back on The Voice — just not this coming season,” the singer adds.

Copyright © 2022, ABC Audio. All rights reserved.