John Legend Is Sitting out For ‘The Voice’ Season 25 — Why Did He Leave?

When Season 23 of The Voice rolled around, viewers were introduced to a new round of coaches (and also some veteran coaches) and, of course, unbridled musical talent. It also marked the end of Blake Shelton's 12-year stint on the series. Another to take a leave was John Legend.

Although the “All of Me” singer's returned from his brief hiatus the following season and remained in the hot seat for Season 25, word has it he'll be taking some more time away from the show. So, why won't John Legend be returning to The Voice for Season 26? Here's everything to know!

In May 2024, viewers received a bit of disappointing news: John is sitting out for Season 26 of The Voice. During an interview with Entertainment Tonight, John explained "We've always got so many things going on. I'll be doing a lot of shows this summer and traveling overseas this summer." So, it appears the singer will be focusing on his own endeavors come time for the Season 26 debut.

John also stepped away during Season 23 of the show. In October 2022, during an interview with Entertainment Tonight, the 45-year-old singer-songwriter elaborated on his decision to exit after coaching since 2019.

"My family's growing, I have a new album out, I'm gonna do a little bit of touring, and so it's probably better that I take a break," the “Wonder Woman” singer shared.

"We took a break last season because we had another show in our slot that the network tried — and I thought that was gonna happen this season, but it ended up that they wanted us back,” he said at the time.

On Jan. 13, 2023, John Legend and his wife, Chrissy Teigen, added another member to their growing family. The married couple welcomed their daughter, Esti Maxine, several years after Chrissy suffered a devastating pregnancy loss in 2020. “She’s here!” the Cravings author wrote on Instagram on Jan. 19.

“The house is bustling and our family could not be happier. Daddy sheds nightly tears of joy seeing Luna and Miles so full of love.” John and Chrissy later welcomed son, Wren Alexander, via surrogate, in June 2023, so clearly they have a lot on their plate with four kids.

So, will the “Minefields” singer return for future installments of The Voice?

While speaking with Entertainment Tonight in May 2024, John stated, "I'll be back," after divulging his reasoning for not appearing as a coach for Season 26. While it's unclear how long his personal projects will keep him occupied and away from the show, at least we know his intentions are to return at some point.

If John Legend's Season 26 departure notice threw you for a loop, you'll be even more surprised to find out who will be replacing him and some of the other coaches from Season 25.

On May 13, 2024, NBC announced via Instagram the new lineup of coaches taking the hot seats for Season 26. They include Gwen Stefani (yep, she's returning), Michael Bublé, Snoop Dogg, and Reba. How's that for a mix-up?!

Stream episodes ofThe Voice on NBC and stay tuned for details on the Season 26 premiere date.