Adam Levine and Blake Shelton’s constant back and forth has become one of the more entertaining aspects of The Voice in recent years.
But with the Maroon 5 frontman’s exit from the series, there’s sure to be a lack of bro-y banter between the judges. We mean, Kelly Clarkson’s far too amiable to spar with the country crooner, and John Legend is here for the *music*.
But not to worry — executives have a plan!
According to Us Weekly, NBC suits have enlisted none other than Gwen Stefani to be Blake’s new sparring partner!
Related: Execs ‘Furious’ At Adam’s Bad Attitude Before His ‘Voice’ Exit!
A source told the outlet to “expect Gwen to spar a bit with Blake” in the upcoming 17th season, adding:
“Executives have encouraged her to do so.”
Hmmm. That’s either the best… or worst idea ever!
As fans know, Blake and Gwenny have been dating since 2015 (after meeting on The Voice) and have made it clear marriage is in the future. Of course, their chemistry is palpable. But it’s more of a lovey-dovey, ain’t-you-the-cutest kind of chemistry — far different than Adam and Blake’s frenemy dynamic.
Basically, asking a loving couple to playfully argue for entertainment might not go over so well. (Just ask the (current and former) El Moussas…) That said, it’s no surprise the source said the songstress is really “feeling pressure” to fill Adam’s shoes as she returns to the show for the first time since season 12.
Then again, it might be the best decision ever! After all, the I’m Just a Girl singer could serve up some of her feisty ska energy that’s been pent up since the ‘90s and give Blake a real verbal beatdown.
We’ll just have to wait and see!
For her part, the 49-year-old pop-rocker is “so happy” to be back as a coach. She said in the recently-released first teaser for the new season:
“My life changed so much on this show. And then to be with my best friend Blakey, and to be here with Kelly and John, I feel pretty lucky right now.”
Blakey feels the same way. He said in the same video:
“She literally makes my day 100 percent better.”
Too cute! No, really!
Ch-ch-check out the teaser (below).
Do U think the spars fly between the couple this season? Are Gwen and Blake the next Adam and Blake?
Share your guesses in the comments — and get ready for the new season premiering September 23 at 8 p.m. EST on NBC!
[Image via NBC]
