Will Gwen Stefani Be Returning to ‘The Voice?’ Has That Ship Sailed?

Gwen Stefani fans eagerly anticipating her return to “The Voice” coaching panel may need to adjust their expectations, as the No Doubt singer is notably absent from the upcoming season 28 lineup despite her previous success on the NBC competition series.

The veteran coach, who has appeared on and off since season 7, last mentored contestants during season 26. With “The Voice” set to return on September 22, viewers will instead see Reba McEntire, Michael Bublé, Niall Horan, and Snoop Dogg occupying the iconic red chairs.

Current Focus on Music and Family

While there hasn’t been an official announcement explaining Stefani’s absence from season 28, several factors suggest why she might be taking a temporary step back from the coaching role. The singer has been actively promoting new music from her 2024 album “Bouquet” and performing at various venues throughout the summer months.

Her recent musical activities included a notable performance alongside her husband, Blake Shelton, at the Churchill Park Music Festival in St. John’s, Canada, in July. “St. John’s 🇨🇦 💐 i’m coming for you July 27!! ✨,” she wrote on Instagram. “Can’t wait to sing with you gx.”

Beyond her professional commitments, Stefani has been prioritizing her role as a wife to Shelton and mother to her three sons, Kingston, Zuma, and Apollo, whom she shares with ex-husband Gavin Rossdale. Sources indicate that she has been prioritizing quality time with her family, taking a step back from public appearances, and regularly sharing personal family moments while concentrating on her home life.

A significant milestone occurred in May when the Hollywood Walk of Fame honored Stefani with a star, with her family members surrounding and supporting her during this career achievement.

Possibility of Future Return

Despite her current absence, Stefani’s history with “The Voice” suggests that a future return remains possible. Her pattern of coaching on and off throughout various seasons suggests that doors may remain open for her comeback when her personal and professional schedules align.

The coaching panel for season 28 features experienced mentors, with Bublé returning after achieving a two-contestant winning streak with previous champions Sofronio Vasquez and Adam David. McEntire is back following a hiatus to film her NBC sitcom “Happy Place,” while Horan brings his successful track record from seasons 23 and 24.

Meanwhile, her husband, Shelton, who left “The Voice” after 23 seasons in May 2023, has committed to a new CBS singing competition called “The Road.” The show, set to premiere October 19, 2025, will feature Shelton alongside Keith Urban and Gretchen Wilson as they search for the next music superstar.

Shelton previously explained his departure from “The Voice” was motivated by his desire to be more present for his family. “I think the only way for me to really [parent] right is to step away from being committed to something like The Voice that demands a lot of your time,” he told Access Hollywood.

For now, fans will need to wait and see if Stefani’s coaching chair remains available for future seasons.