Christina Aguilera, CeeLo Green Taking Break from ‘The Voice’ - Shakira, Usher Step in for Season 4

Having superstar judges, it seems only realistic NBC’s The Voice would have to give them an opportunity to fulfill their career obligations.

On Monday, NBC announced judges Christina Aguilera and CeeLo Green would be taking a break from their roles on The Voice next season.

Stepping into the temporary roles will be Colombian singer Shakira and R&B crooner Usher.

While away from the show, Aguilera will be releasing a new album and promoting it with a tour. Green is said to be working on two albums as well as a comedy series of NBC to be based on his life.

In a statement, NBC Entertainment Chairman Robert Greenblatt said, “We are thrilled to welcome Usher and Shakira to ‘The Voice.’ The addition of these popular iconic artists continues the tradition established by Christina, CeeLo, Adam and Blake,” said Greenblatt. “Doing two back-to-back cycles of this show requires a tremendous amount of time, and we are happy to accommodate the commitments made by Christina and CeeLo. The participants on our show benefit from our coaches’ expertise and their continued success in the music business allows for significant new contributions to the contestants when they return.”

Aguilera expressed her love for the show and her role as judge and mentor, but added “I am a singer and performer first and I am so excited to get back to that love.”

Since this year NBC and ‘The Voice’ have decided to tape back-to-back seasons, requiring a full-year commitment, it is important for me to take season four off, allowing me to support my music that my fans have been waiting for—with the release of my new album ‘Lotus’ on November 13. By pursuing my first passion of music during the break, I am also able to come back and offer even more to my team on ‘The Voice’ in the future.

Here is what Green had to say about his break from the show:

First …thank you NBC for supporting my decision to take this season four hiatus! It says that I’m seen and respected as a complete artist and not just a cast member. I’m highly enthusiastic about focusing my undivided attention on my additional endeavors and interests like my upcoming solo album, new Goodie Mob album, Las Vegas residency ‘Loberace,’ new memoir, and new NBC comedy. It’s great to also give a host of other talent the chance to experience what a joy it is to be part of what is truly THE BEST SHOW of them all, THE VOICE! I will return for season five and will be watching season four. NBC is home and as far as Usher and Shakira are concerned – ‘mi casa su casa.’

Published in Notitas de Noticias