In a debut that was meant to launch him into the big leagues of live television hosting, Dylan Efron—the charming younger brother of Zac Efron and recent reality TV breakout star—faced brutal behind-the-scenes criticism during his first major gig co-hosting The Voice Season 28 Live Finale Preshow on December 16, 2025. Sources close to production reveal that frustrated producers pulled the 33-year-old aside after he committed two glaring “rookie mistakes” that nearly derailed the high-stakes broadcast. While fans praised his boyish charm and on-screen chemistry with co-host Ariana Madix, insiders say Dylan “couldn’t deliver” under the intense pressure of live TV, sparking heated discussions about whether his rapid rise from reality contestant to host was too soon.

Dylan’s Big Break: From Reality Underdog to Live TV Host

Dylan Efron has been Hollywood’s hottest rising star in 2025, captivating audiences with his adventurous spirit and undeniable charisma. After sharing a massive win on Peacock’s The Traitors Season 3 earlier this year, where his strategic gameplay and heartthrob status earned him a devoted fanbase, Dylan placed a impressive fourth on Dancing with the Stars Season 34. His routines showcased vulnerability, athleticism, and that signature Efron smile, turning him into an internet sensation overnight.

NBC, spotting his crossover appeal, tapped him alongside Vanderpump Rules alum and Love Island USA host Ariana Madix to co-host the one-hour The Voice Live Finale Preshow. Airing just before Carson Daly took over for the main finale, the special tasked Dylan and Ariana with recapping Monday’s performances, interviewing finalists, and chatting with guest stars. It was Dylan’s first true live hosting role on network television—a golden opportunity to prove he could handle the unpredictable chaos of unscripted broadcasts.

Fans were thrilled. “Dylan hosting The Voice? This is the glow-up we needed!” one X user posted, while others gushed over his red carpet appearance alongside Ariana. But behind the cameras, things weren’t as smooth.

The Two Major Rookie Mistakes That Sparked Backlash

According to a production insider who spoke exclusively to outlets like The U.S. Sun, Dylan was “frustrated” with himself after committing two critical errors typical of live TV newcomers. The first: flubbing key cues and timings. Live television demands precision—hosts must hit marks exactly as teleprompters and directors command. Sources say Dylan missed several transitions, causing awkward pauses and forcing the control room to scramble. “He hesitated on a couple of handoffs to Ariana and stumbled over contestant names during recaps,” the insider revealed. “It threw off the pacing, and in live TV, there’s no do-over.”

The second mistake was even more glaring: overstepping into ad-lib territory without reading the room. Eager to inject his personality, Dylan reportedly went off-script with impromptu jokes and extended banter that ate into precious segment time. While his charm works wonders in pre-recorded reality formats, producers felt it disrupted the tightly scripted flow needed for a finale preshow. “He couldn’t deliver the lines crisply,” the source added. “Producers were frustrated because they had high hopes—he’s likable, but live hosting is a different beast.”

These slip-ups reportedly led to a stern talking-to from executive producers during commercial breaks. One crew member described the atmosphere as tense: “Dylan looked flustered, but Ariana stepped in seamlessly—she’s a pro at this now.” Madix, with her experience hosting Love Island USA, carried much of the heavy lifting, smoothly navigating interviews with finalists like Aiden Ross (the eventual winner from Team Niall Horan) and guests.

Why Live TV Exposed Dylan’s Inexperience

Dylan’s background is in production and adventure content—he produced his brother Zac’s Netflix series Down to Earth and stars in his own YouTube challenges like Everything’s a Competition. Reality shows like The Traitors and DWTS allowed edits and retakes, masking any rough edges. But The Voice preshow was pure live chaos: no safety net, millions watching, and the pressure of bridging to the main finale where Niall Horan secured his third straight win.

Critics on social media were kinder than producers. Many viewers didn’t notice the glitches, praising Dylan’s “fresh energy” and “cute nervousness.” “He was adorable even if he flubbed a line—give the guy a break, it’s his first time!” one fan tweeted. Others compared him favorably to seasoned hosts: “Dylan and Ariana had great chemistry—better than some regulars!” However, a vocal minority called out the awkward moments, with clips circulating on TikTok highlighting his stumbles.

Ariana Madix: The Saving Grace

Ariana Madix shone brightly, proving why she’s become a hosting powerhouse. Fresh off her DWTS runner-up finish and dominating Love Island, she handled the mishaps with grace, redirecting conversations and keeping energy high. “Ariana was the MVP—she covered for Dylan without making it obvious,” the insider noted. Their shared DWTS bond helped; Dylan later told reporters it felt “full circle” working with her after chatting about hosting dreams on that show.

Fan Backlash and Defense: A Divided Audience

The story exploded online after leaks hit tabloids. Hashtags like #DylanOnTheVoice trended, with fans defending him fiercely: “He’s new to this—cut him slack! Zac’s brother is trying!” Others were harsher: “Nepo baby vibes—he got the gig because of his last name, and it showed.” The “rookie mistakes” narrative fueled debates about celebrity hosting gigs, with some arguing experience matters more than fame.

Dylan, known for his humility, has yet to comment directly, but past interviews show he’s self-aware. In a recent chat, he admitted to past frustrations: “I made a lot of mistakes… I don’t want to ever feel like I’m this perfect person.” Sources say he’s taking the feedback in stride, viewing it as a learning curve.

What’s Next for Dylan Efron?

Despite the hiccups, NBC insiders say the gig was a “trial run,” and Dylan’s likability keeps doors open. With his YouTube series gaining traction and more reality offers pouring in, this bump could be a blessing. Will he bounce back stronger, or was live TV a step too far too soon?

One thing’s clear: Dylan Efron’s journey from shadow to spotlight is full of thrills—and growing pains. As The Voice wraps another dramatic season, fans are left wondering: Can the rookie recover and claim his own red chair someday?