The Voice fans are going to have to "forget" Cee Lo Green. After four seasons on the smash NBC reality singing competition, the "Crazy" singer, 39, announced he will not be returning– ever — to the red spinny chair on the Wednesday, Feb. 19 episode of ELLEN.
"I'm going to continue my relationship with NBC," he told Ellen DeGeneres. "I have a television show development deal with them as well and hopefully some other talk show opportunities for later in the year. But yeah, I'm going to miss The Voice too. So I’m not coming back guys."
An incredulous DeGeneres asked Cee Lo to clarify. "I'm not coming back at all," he said. "I don't want to wear out my welcome there. You know what I'm saying. I have so many other things that I want to do. I haven't released an album in four years. I'm almost done with my album." UPDATE: Cee Lo confirmed the news later on Wednesday morning with an extended statement to Us Weekly.
"There are numerous reasons that led to this decision, which has been amicably reached with NBC, but I'm excited to be developing several other ideas with the network and my association with NBC remains strong, " the singer said. "The Voice has been an immensely enjoyable experience for me and I can only hope I have enriched the lives of our viewers, the contestants, and the many friends I made there. I will always be there in spirit. Meanwhile, NBC and I plan to continue our relationship with several new co-ventures including a new music show, while we also explore our ideas for me to create and host a new show of my own. I will not go quietly into the night… expect more great music and entertainment done in my own unique unmistakable and undeniable way. The Voice has given me all the altitude and incentive to do just that. Thanks for the memories and make way for many more!”
Back in 2011, Green was among the original four mentors on The Voice alongside Adam Levine, Blake Shelton and Christina Aguilera. Both he and Aguilera served for seasons 1-3 and sat season 4 out, with Shakira and Usher filling their spots; the original twosome resumed their duties for season five.
In the meantime, the Grammy winner has an upcoming tour — with Lionel Richie, who joined him for the Ellen appearance. "He'll be with me, on the road!" Richie said.
