Blake Shelton puts it all on the line with new show aiming to beat The Voice after ratings fall

Country music star Blake Shelton, husband of Gwen Stefani, is making a bold return to television with The Road, a singing competition series he co-produces with Yellowstone creator Taylor Sheridan. The new show, set to premiere next fall on CBS, promises a unique twist on the genre by combining musical mentorship with the grit of life on tour.

Shelton, 48, has been a household name in the music industry for years, thanks largely to his role as a coach on NBC’s The Voice. However, since his departure 18 months ago, the show has struggled with ratings, dropping from an average of 15 million viewers during Shelton’s tenure to just 7 million under his successor, Reba McEntire. With The Road, Shelton aims to recapture that magic while introducing a fresh and exciting format.

‘The Road’: A New Spin on Music Competitions

Unlike traditional singing competitions, The Road will take contestants out of the studio and onto the road. Aspiring singers will tour with a country music star, performing for local audiences and competing to earn the title of “king of The Road.” According to a TV insider, Shelton is banking on the format’s originality to set the show apart.

“Blake is gung-ho about this project,” the insider revealed. “He believes Taylor Sheridan’s involvement will be the key to its success. Everything Taylor touches turns to gold.”

Sheridan, best known for his work on the critically acclaimed series Yellowstone, is expected to bring his storytelling expertise to the project. The partnership marks a significant crossover between television genres, blending the drama of Sheridan’s narratives with the spectacle of music competitions.

Behind the Scenes: Casting and Mentorship

The production team is reportedly still deciding on the show’s host and mentors. While Shelton has considered taking on a hands-on role, concerns about his lack of recent touring experience might hold him back.

“Blake hasn’t toured much lately,” a source explained. “He’s unsure if he has his ‘touring sea legs’ to guide contestants on the road.”

Country music heavyweights like Morgan Wallen, Thomas Rhett, and Luke Combs have been floated as potential mentors, although no official announcements have been made. The involvement of such stars could give The Road a competitive edge against its rivals.

The Voice Struggles Without Shelton

Meanwhile, NBC’s The Voice has faced declining viewership since Shelton’s exit. McEntire stepped in as the show’s country coach, but critics argue that her presence has not filled the void left by Shelton’s departure. Fans have also noted a lack of chemistry among the current panel of judges, contributing to the show’s ratings slump.

Industry experts believe Shelton’s departure may have been a critical blow to The Voice’s dominance in the genre. “Blake was the heart of the show,” said one television analyst. “His charisma and deep connection with viewers were irreplaceable.”