According to TMZ, pregnant Christina Aguilera is being replaced by Gwen Stefani on Season 7 of "The Voice."
Multiple sources close to the show confirmed that the No Doubt singer will begin taping the upcoming season in June. Reportedly producers started looking for a new judge in February shortly after Aguilera announced that she was expecting her second child.
The replacement of judges makes sense since Aguilera will be eight or nine moths along by the time the battle rounds begin. Sources told TMZ that the network wanted to keep the "Beautiful" singer but she was already having a difficult time and decided to sit Season 7 out.
Reportedly Stefani's deal with "The Voice" is only for one season and Aguilera is expected to return for Season 8. One week before Aguilera's pregnancy news broke in February, Cee Lo Green announced on "The Ellen DeGeneres Show that he wouldn't be returning and wanted to work on his music.
At the end of March, NBC announced that "Happy" singer Pharrell Williams had been signed on as a judge.
"Okay, we can OFFICIALLY say it! WE ARE SO #APPY to announce PHARRELL WILLIAMS = #NEWVOICECOACH for SEASON 7," the show's Twitter page posted.
NBC Paul Telegdy explained in a statement (via E! News) why the show thought Williams was the perfect addition to the coaches section.
"It's been a huge year for Pharrell, with recognition for his contribution in the world of music - the 'Despicable Me' franchise soundtracks, his Oscar-nominated song 'Happy' and his Grammy-winning collaboration with Daft Punk on the breakout dance hit 'Get Lucky.' His dominance in record sales in 2014, coupled with his incompatible accomplishments in the world of fashion and design, make him an irresistible addition to 'The Voice' family. He has already made a considerable impact as a mentor, drawing on an impressive track record as both a producer and performer. It is a perfect fit for 'The Voice' as we evolve and reach for new heights with this franchise. It feels like we are welcoming an existing family member home."
