Viewers of The Voice UK were shocked to learn that the first episode of the new series will be the final for one of the coaches.
Olly Murs announced his departure from the ITV singing competition in September after six years in the red chair.
At the time, the former X Factor judge expressed “shock” at the decision, guaranteeing that it was not “amicable.”
Olly, 39, stated that he ‘accepts’ the decision to let him go, but emphasised how much he will’miss’ his work.
Olly went to social media ahead of the new season’ premiere on Saturday night (October 4) with a cheeky video in which he tortured fellow coach Anne-Marie by dancing.
‘Still time to annoy them and you one last time 🤪🤣👏🏻’, he joked in his caption.
Fans were outraged that Olly would only be appearing on The Voice for one more episode.
‘It just won’t be the same without you next time! BIG HUGE mistake by them’, one person said.
‘So good to have you back ❤️ gutted it’s your last series’, another penned.
‘We’re gonna miss you on here but they’re going to REGRET IT ❤️’, added another sad fan.
Others declared Olly’s departure as ITV’s ‘biggest loss’ and said they will be ‘boycotting next year’.
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‘Still fuming’, one person penned, while another wrote: ‘This year is the last time I’m watching The Voice. It won’t be the same without you and Anne-Marie. Loved your energy together’.
Indeed, pop sensation Anne-Marie is allegedly leaving The Voice after this season.
According to reports, ITV wants to replace the 2002 hitmaker, 32, who will appear on the programme in 2021, with an artist who has a significant adolescent fanbase.
The Rockabye singer’s successor would appear on the show with Will.i.am of the Black Eyed Peas and Welsh vocalist Sir Tom Jones.
A source told The Sun: ‘Anne-Marie has loved being part of the show but producers want to give the series a refresh.
‘ITV wants to ensure that the show pulls in teens, so they are always looking at who is hot in the music world.’
When approached, ITV did not deny Anne-Marie had been axed from The Voice.
A spokesperson said: ‘The Voice UK returns to ITV1 and ITVX for a brand new series on Saturday 4th November at 8:25pm featuring coaches Will.i.am, Sir Tom Jones, Anne-Marie, and Olly Murs.
‘Details of the 2024 series will be confirmed in due course.’
The Voice airs Saturdays on ITV1 and ITVX.
