The Voice Fans Shocked: NBC Cuts a Coach — Here’s the Real Reason Behind Season 29’s Big Shakeup

NBC’s The Voice has always featured four superstar coaches since its debut in 2011. But Season 29 is breaking tradition with only three coaches on the panel: Kelly Clarkson, Adam Levine, and John Legend.

Programming Changes at NBC

The shakeup comes as NBC adjusts its primetime schedule to accommodate NBA games. With no Tuesday episodes this season, the show has fewer hours to work with. Showrunner Audrey Morrissey explained that the reduced airtime meant fewer contestants could be included.

Smaller Teams, Streamlined Format

In past seasons, each of the four coaches had 12 to 14 artists on their teams, leading to 48–56 contestants advancing from the Blind Auditions. This season, only 30 singers will make it through, with each coach selecting 10 artists. Morrissey noted that having four coaches with such small teams “felt a little ridiculous.” The decision to scale back to three coaches ensures that each team remains competitive while fitting the shorter season.

New Competition Twist

Season 29 introduces the All-Star Showdown round. In this format, whichever coach wins the showdown will have the advantage of an additional artist in the finale. Ultimately, four singers will make it to the Finals, keeping the stakes high despite the reduced roster.

What Viewers Can Expect

NBC promises fans won’t miss the fourth coach. With Clarkson, Levine, and Legend leading the way, the season still boasts star power and dynamic chemistry. The Blind Auditions continue on Monday nights at 9/8c, with reruns airing on Wednesdays. While the format change may feel unusual, it reflects NBC’s effort to balance programming while keeping The Voice fresh and competitive.