The recent conclusion of The Voice‘s 25th season saw contestant Asher Havon emerge victorious, leaving many viewers delighted. However, the end of one season marks the beginning of a new chapter, as fans will soon encounter with the forthcoming changes in the coaches’ lineup for the show’s 26th season, slated for fall 2024.

In an Instagram announcement this month, NBC revealed that Reba McEntire and Gwen Stefani will be returning as coaches, while “Drop It Like It’s Hot” rapper Snoop Dogg and “Haven’t Met You Yet” hitmaker Michael Bublé are set to make their debut as coaches.

Despite fans’ enthusiasm about the aforementioned group, John Legend‘s absence from the upcoming season has stirred up curiosity among the show’s supporters. Legend, 45, has cited personal career goals as the reason behind his decision to step back from the show.

Despite the “All of Me” singer’s explanation, many fans on X (formerly Twitter) have expressed disappointment at his departure and the show’s continued evolution.

Tyler Golden/NBC

John Legend’s Fans React To News Of His Departure From The Show For His Upcoming Tour

Soon after the news emerged that Legend would be leaving The Voice, one fan tweeted: “john legend is leaving the voice too… first kelly then blake and now him?” Another added: “He took a break before, is he taking another?”

Ever since joining The Voice as a coach during season 16 in February 2019, Legend has played a significant role. The Grammy winner’s presence as a mentor to contestants spanned across seasons 16 to 22 and he later made a comeback for seasons 24 and 25. This has led many fans to wonder if he will make yet another return in the future.

Tyler Golden/NBC

Why Is John Legend Leaving ‘The Voice?’

During a conversation with Entertainment Tonight this month, the “Ordinary People” artist mentioned that his hiatus from the musical competition show was due to his focus on music. He disclosed his plans to the outlet about performing multiple concerts, including international shows, throughout the rest of the year.

“We’ve always got so many things going on,” the father of four dished to the publication. He went on: “I’ll be doing a lot of shows this summer and traveling overseas this summer.” He also teased his Voice return: “I’ll be back … If only I were actually going to take a break!”

Casey Durkin/NBC

Although Legend will not be returning to coach on The Voice for the forthcoming season, he did share his thoughts on the addition of Snoop Dogg, 52, and Bublé,, 48, to the iconic turning chairs.

“It’s exciting to incorporate some new people into The Voice family. Having Snoop here, he’s been here as a mentor before, but having him as a coach, I think is going to be a lot of fun and reinvigorate the show a bit,” Legend noted.

He continued: “We’ve been around for 25 seasons and part of how we continue to stay fresh is introducing new coaches to The Voice family, and I think Michael and Snoop will do really well.”