Emma Willis’ future on The Voice as they welcome new judge in first-look
ITV has dropped a first-look image and teaser for the new series of The Voice UK as it returns after a year-long hiatus.
The broadcaster had previously confirmed Kelly Rowland will be joining the other coaches, and announced Emma Willis’ return amid her new role on a rival channel.
The presenter is set for a busy few months ahead after the announcement that she is now one of the new presenters on Strictly Come Dancing.
Joining comedian Josh Widdicombe and professional dancer Johannes Radebe, Emma will be stepping in to front the beloved dancing competition.
This comes after Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly confirmed they were leaving the show at the end of the last series.
Emma had previously said that she was “so excited” to return to The Voice UK, adding: “It’s one of the most joyful shows to work on – full of passion, talent and of course those unforgettable moments when the chairs turn. With our brilliant coaches returning and the utterly fabulous Kelly Rowland joining the panel, I know this series is going to be something really special.”
ITV has now unveiled a sneak peek at the competition’s comeback, featuring a “game-changing” new element.
Reigning coach champions Danny Jones and Tom Fletcher are making their return alongside Sir Tom Jones, will.i.am and Kelly.
Meanwhile, Emma will be “steering the show through every emotional high note, electrifying performance, and dramatic chair turn”.
The channel has also announced a fresh ‘game-changing’ development: an innovative ‘Rewind’ feature for the format. Each coach will now have the opportunity during the Blind Auditions to reconsider their decision about a performer who has left the stage without securing any chair turns, reports the Manchester Evening News.
ITV further revealed: “If a coach realises they have made a mistake, they can hit Rewind, bring the act back, and offer them a place on their team. However, with only one Rewind available to each coach, they must choose their moment wisely. For an act who thought their journey was over, it could change everything.”
Emma has previously spoken about the long hours filming The Voice UK, which is pre-recorded.
She said: “It’s a nightmare on your back and feet because it is five-hour blocks of standing up consistently. It’s like being at a gig without a glass of wine!”
She went on to tease that she may “cause trouble” in future seasons after one “nerve-wracking” stint in the red chair, quipping: “Next time, I might just run out there and push someone else’s button, not wait to be asked to sit in a chair.
“I might just go rogue. I think I need an Ant and Dec-style Golden Buzzer from Britain’s Got Talent. But I’ve been asking for that for years. Let’s have five coaches, give me a button!”
After being announced as the new host of Strictly earlier this year, Emma said: “It’s no secret that I’m a huge fan of Strictly – I’ve cheered and danced along from my sofa for years – so to be stepping into the Strictly ballroom is something I can’t quite comprehend.
“It’s impossible to fill the shoes that Tess and Claudia have left behind – two wonderful, iconic women who have been the beating heart of Strictly for so long. I can only hope that we are able to help to steer the ship as beautifully as they have, into this new chapter.
“I can’t wait to spend my weekends with Josh and Jojo, the incredible dancers and the judges. Fingers crossed for a 10 from them!”