Niall Horan has officially been replaced, and some folks aren’t happy about it.
The Voice just gave fans a first look at what’s to come in season 25, but folks are sad about a previous face not making an appearance this time around.
Ahead of the show’s February 26 premiere, viewers got a taste of coaches Reba McEntire, John Legend, Chance the Rapper and incoming co-coaches Dan + Shay thanks to a post on the NBC series’ official Instagram. In the ad spot, folks saw Reba, John and Chance smiling at the camera while Dan + Shay excitedly hit the red button attached to their brand-new double chair as a way to promote the upcoming season.
“Our Coaches have us doing double takes‼️ 👀,” the show’s social team captioned the post on February 2. “#TheVoice returns Monday February 26 on @nbc and streaming on @peacock. 🤩.”
While fans were ecstatic to get a look at the group of coaches that will likely make a splash this season, many commenters were quick to share their thoughts on the one former mentor who is noticeably absent in season 25. Mainly, they were disappointed that two-time winning coach Niall Horan won’t be sitting in the red chair for a third season.
“Amazing coaches but Niall Horan will be missed 🥺,” one person wrote on Instagram. “Won’t be the same without Niall and of course Blake,” another implored in the comments. “Niall was the best thing since Blake. He’ll be missed,” a different follower remarked.
While Niall never explicitly explained the reason behind not joining The Voice for season 25, it’s likely due to the fact that he’s embarking on The Show Live on Tour in the U.K. starting on February 20. He’ll be traveling around the world to sing tunes off his third album through September, and will stop throughout the United States over the summer.
“I am beyond thrilled to announce The Show Live On Tour 2024!” he shared on Instagram back in May 2023. “It’s been far too long and I can’t wait to see your beautiful faces.”
Who knows, with two wins under his belt, there may still be a chance to see Niall back on The Voice in the future.
