Read also: would not be returning to "The Voice"
TheWrap reports an insider close to the production the network was "blindsided" by the "Forget You" singer's announcement.
"I'm going to continue my relationship with NBC," Green told 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."
According to the insider, NBC and producer Mark Burnett Productions were planning on firing Green off the show.
"A second individual with knowledge of the situation told TheWrap that NBC wanted to announce Green's departure mutually with the singer but that Green decided he wanted to do it on 'The Ellen DeGeneres Show,'" according to the entertainment website.
The sources told TheWrap Green was experiencing emotional issues relating to his legal woes. The singer was accused of raping a 33-year-old woman after allegedly slipping ecstasy into her drink. The sexual assault charges were dropped, but he is still facing a felony charge of furnishing a controlled substance, which could land him in jail for up to four years if convicted.
However, a spokesperson for NBC refuted claims the network didn't know the singer was leaving the show.
"CeeLo's departure didn't blindside us at all. This was a mutual decision and we're looking forward to working with him in the future on different projects and expect to be in business with him," the spokesperson told TheWrap.
NBC released the following statement about Green's official exit of "The Voice":
"CeeLo Green has been an instrumental part of the success of 'The Voice' and we deeply appreciate all his contributions...We're looking forward to working with him on other upcoming projects that will tap into both his musical and entertainment expertise."
Green stated on the "Ellen DeGeneres Show" he would return to "The Voice" is NBC invited him back.
