In 2024, country duo Dan + Shay became the first double coach on the American version of The Voice.
They made a splash from the get-go, establishing a country music rivalry with the legendary Reba McEntire. They famously blocked her from a contestant, Karen Waldrup, who is now in the finals, and McEntire stole a contestant from them during the Battle Rounds.
Even before the semi-final results were revealed on Tuesday (May 14), it was announced that Dan + Shay would not be returning to The Voice for Season 26.
The Season 26 coaches are Reba McEntire, Gwen Stefani, Michael Bublé, and Snoop Dogg. While this group might be a little unexpected, neither of the new coaches are strangers to The Voice. Bublé was former coach Blake Shelton’s advisor in Season 3, while Snoop Dogg was Season 20’s Mega Mentor.
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While Dan + Shay are seemingly one and done on The Voice, is the door open for them to return?
According to Shay Mooney, absolutely yes. In an interview with Entertainment Tonight, he revealed that they are touring a lot for the rest of 2024, which is why they aren’t coming back for Season 26. They are kicking off their Heartbreak On The Map Summer Tour on July 18 and it goes until September 21.
Shay said, “We’re touring a lot this year, which we’re really excited about, obviously it doesn’t allow us to come back. But I think that would be a blast if they would have us, we would definitely love to see what that looks like!”
He continued saying how much fun he and Dan had, how incredible the crew has been, and how everyone has made it feel like a family.
“They built the chairs…they spent a lot of money on the [double chair], so I hope we get invited back!” he said jokingly with the reporter.