Blake Shelton is officially retired sound following the conclusion of Tuesday night (May 23). And after completing his impressive run as a coach for 23 seasons in 12 years, the country star is reflecting on his “bitter” journey with the show he helped start back in 2011 .
“Can’t believe it’s been 23 seasons of @nbcthevoice…and especially can’t believe today is my last episode,” she wrote in an Instagram post hours before the live final episode aired. “It’s bittersweet. When we signed up for Season 1, I don’t think any of us knew what it was going to be.
Shelton was one of four OG coaches soundThe first season of, alongside Christina Aguilera, Adam Levine and CeeLo Green. Over the years, he remained a fixture on panels that also saw Kelly Clarkson, John Legend, Pharrell Williams, Shakira, Usher, Alicia Keys, Miley Cyrus, and Shelton’s now-wife Gwen Stefani in one of the red chairs. He spent his final season coaching Clarkson and newcomers Niall Horan and Chance the Rapper.
“Over these past 12 years I have made lifelong friends and memories,” the “God’s Country” singer continued in his post, sharing photos with some of his mentors and co-coaches from last season. “I’ve had the great opportunity to coach some really talented cast members, the 9 who have won #TeamBlake (let’s make it 10 tonight?), and watch these cast members grow so much from the show. Thank you to everyone… the crew, the coaches, the competitors, the fans and my wife who have made these some really great years. love y’all!!!!!!”
Unfortunately for #TeamBlake, it was Gina Miles on Horan’s team who took home the prize. Still, Shelton remains soundWinningest coach of all time with a total of nine wins. The following season would mark the show’s first season without her as a coach, although Stefani, Horan and Legend would return, with Reba McEntire making her debut in Shelton’s place.
Check out Blake’s post below:
