The departure of Blake Shelton from “The Voice” symbolizes the end of an era. “The Voice” coach and country artist has been on the show since it started on NBC in 2011.

Although Shelton was already a well-known singer when he began working as a coach, his involvement on the NBC show garnered him new fans, as many saw a different side of him.

As a coach in Season 1, he collaborated with CeeLo Green, Adam Levine, and Christina Aguilera. Shelton’s time on the show was a success in many ways, including victories.

“I’ve been thinking about it for a while, and I’ve decided that it’s time for me to leave ‘The Voice’ after Season 23,” he wrote in a lengthy Instagram post.

“This program has changed my life in every aspect, and it will always feel like home to me.
“The last 12 years have been a tumultuous trip.”
His departure, though, had been a long time coming.

When Blake Shelton leaves “The Voice,” it will be awkward, but his time on the program was nearly over before he formally left.

Shelton and his co-stars covered several issues during an interview on “Today,” including Shelton’s upcoming exit from the program. The “God’s Country” singer told Carson Daly a few years ago that he pondered resigning from coaching.

“I guess I was about to give up when COVID hit,” Shelton admits. “And then, because of COVID, I didn’t want to leave the show and put everyone in a bind. This program has altered my life, and I intend to stay till the world returns to normal.”

Despite his decision to leave the show, Shelton highlighted how much it meant to him to be a part of something special.

“I met my wife on this show; it’s changed my life in every way,” he said. “It’s been incredible, but the time has come. It’s not even time to consider what comes next… “A little nothing wouldn’t hurt.”

Gwen Stefani, Shelton’s wife, also remarked on his decision to leave in a sad interview with Entertainment Tonight.

“I can’t get the words out because it stinks,” she explained. We agree with her!