In a moment that left The Voice fans gasping and reaching for tissues, beloved coach Michael Bublé appeared to bid an emotional goodbye to the hit NBC singing competition during the Season 28 finale on December 15, 2025. The Canadian crooner, who has dominated the show with back-to-back wins in Seasons 26 and 27, choked back tears as he told finalist Jazz McKenzie, “This is it. This is my last time here… What a way to go.” The heartfelt declaration has ignited a firestorm of speculation, with insiders confirming Bublé’s exit and fans already dreaming of who might fill his oversized red chair—chief among them, pop icon Gwen Stefani, whose potential ninth stint as coach has Reddit threads exploding with excitement.

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An Emotional Finale That Felt Like Goodbye

Season 28 of The Voice wrapped with high drama, as Niall Horan’s contestant Aiden Ross claimed victory, marking Horan’s unprecedented third consecutive win. But it was Bublé’s raw vulnerability that stole the spotlight. After Jazz McKenzie’s powerhouse performance, the Grammy-winning singer turned to her with tears in his eyes: “I wrote you last night… You are the light. This is my last time here.” He added, “I leave this show, and let me tell you, Jazz McKenzie, what a way to go. You are perfect.”

Fans immediately sensed something was amiss. “Did Bublé just say he’s leaving #TheVoice?” one X user posted, while others noted he “sounded off” and “wasn’t acting like himself” throughout the two-part finale. Production insiders quickly corroborated the rumors. A source close to the show told The U.S. Sun, “Michael has already said that he’s done with the show after this season.” The insider emphasized that it would be “a big loss,” praising Bublé’s passion for the crew and his role, but acknowledging the personal toll.

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The Voice’ coach Michael Bublé previews season 26

Why Is Michael Bublé Walking Away?

Bublé’s departure comes after an extraordinary run. Debuting in Season 26 alongside Snoop Dogg, Gwen Stefani, and Reba McEntire, he quickly proved his coaching prowess by guiding Sofronio Vasquez to victory. He repeated the feat in Season 27 with Adam David, earning a flawless 2-0 record before Season 28’s heartbreaking finale, where his finalists Jazz McKenzie and Max Chambers landed in the bottom two.

Behind the success, however, lay mounting challenges. Insiders reveal that the demanding filming schedule kept Bublé away from his family for extended periods—a struggle that weighed heavily on the father of four. Adding fuel to the fire was relentless online backlash, with trolls targeting everything from his coaching style to personal matters. “The negativity took a toll,” the source noted. For a star known for his warm, genuine demeanor, the constant scrutiny proved exhausting.

Bublé, 50, has always prioritized family. His young children and wife, actress Luisana Lopilato, remain his anchor. After three intense seasons, sources say he’s ready to step back, focus on touring, new music, and cherished time at home. While no official statement has been released, his finale words feel like a poignant swan song.

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Gwen Stefani Return Rumors Explode

With Bublé’s exit confirmed and Season 29 already locked in as a special “Battle of the Champions” format featuring just three winning coaches—Kelly Clarkson, John Legend, and Adam Levine—eyes are turning to Season 30. Fans are buzzing that this could pave the way for Gwen Stefani’s triumphant comeback.

The No Doubt frontwoman, who last coached in Season 26 alongside Bublé, Snoop, and Reba, has a storied history with the show. Across eight seasons, Stefani brought glamour, sharp instincts, and undeniable star power, mentoring winners like Carter Rubin in Season 19. Her playful banter, fashion-forward looks, and genuine empathy made her a fan favorite. Though she sat out recent cycles to focus on music and family life with husband Blake Shelton, whispers of her return have persisted.

On Reddit, speculation is rampant. “Could we get Gwen and Blake?!” one user dreamed, while others predicted lineups like “Gwen, John Legend, Reba” or “Adam, Gwen, JHud [Jennifer Hudson], and a new country male coach.” The enthusiasm is palpable: “Gwen and JHud could be about right!” another fan gushed. Stefani’s chemistry with veterans like Reba and newcomers alike, plus her proven track record, makes her a natural fit to fill the void left by Bublé’s charm.

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The Ever-Changing Red Chairs: A History of Shake-Ups

The Voice has thrived on its revolving door of superstar coaches, keeping the format fresh since its 2011 debut. Original panel members like Adam Levine, Blake Shelton, Christina Aguilera, and CeeLo Green set the tone, but the show has welcomed everyone from Usher and Shakira to Ariana Grande and Camila Cabello.

Recent seasons have seen bold experiments: Double chairs for Dan + Shay in Season 25, debut wins for newcomers like Bublé. Snoop Dogg, after two fun-filled seasons, also seems unlikely to return, with insiders noting he “didn’t seem entirely interested” despite his infectious energy. Reba McEntire and Niall Horan have been staples, but the upcoming Season 29’s trimmed-down trio signals more innovation ahead.

Bublé’s run stands out for its immediate impact. His smooth vocals, heartfelt feedback, and bromances—with Snoop in Season 26 or Adam Levine in Season 27—brought warmth and sophistication. Losing him feels like saying goodbye to a friend, but it opens doors for nostalgia-fueled returns.

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Fan Frenzy and What Comes Next

Social media is ablaze with tributes to Bublé and pleas for Stefani. “Bring back Gwen—she’s the queen of The Voice!” trends alongside heartfelt messages thanking Michael for his wins and vulnerability. Some fans worry about the show’s future without his winning streak, while others excitement builds for potential dream panels: Stefani alongside Shelton for a power couple reunion? Or paired with Hudson for diva energy?

As NBC gears up for Season 29’s champion showdown in Spring 2026, Season 30 remains a blank canvas. Producers love surprises, and Stefani’s name keeps surfacing for good reason—her authenticity resonates with contestants and viewers alike.

Michael Bublé’s potential exit reminds us why we love The Voice: It’s not just about the singers; it’s about the mentors who pour their hearts into the journey. Whether crooning classics or tearing up on stage, Bublé gave us unforgettable moments. If this truly is goodbye, what a way to go. And if Gwen Stefani answers the call? Get ready—the red chairs are about to get a whole lot hotter.