American Idol is one of the biggest shows of all time, and it gave way to notable winners who have done amazing things in music. Sure, there were some duds, but enough success stories emerged to keep people flocking to auditions. To date, Kelly Clarkson remains one of the show's biggest success stories.
Clarkson has had a wonderful post-Idol career, even pivoting to judging duties on The Voice, pocketing millions while doing so. Kelly is loved on the show, but she recently announced that she won't be around this season, a decision that fans were stunned to hear.
Let's take a closer look at Clarkson, and learn why she is skipping out on The Voice's upcoming season.
Kelly Clarkson's Life Completely Changed In 2002
Summer 2002 marked the start of American Idol a brand new reality competition show that promised to find the next singing star from Anytown USA. The concept was solid, but the execution was brilliant, and in the end, Kelly Clarkson was crowned the first ever winner of the beloved show.
Following her win, Clarkson lived up to expectations, selling millions of records globally, while cementing her place in music history. She set a high bar for future winners, one that few have even come close to matching.
Over time, Clarkson would add a number if impressive accolades to her list of accomplishments. Music was more than enough to keep her relevant, but she tacked on acting, hosting duties, and so much more in the years following her Idol victory.
In recent years, Clarkson has made a successful pivot to the small screen, even taking on judging duties on a competition show that has seemingly overtaken the show that made her a star many years ago.
Kelly Clarkson Joined The Voice In 2017
When it was announced that Kelly Clarkson was going to join The Voice, fans were both shocked and excited. Clarkson, after all, is a former American Idol winner, but that didn't stop her from changing teams later in her career.
"I’m so excited to join ‘The Voice’ at NBC. We’ve gone back and forth about a role as a coach for years, but the timing hasn’t been right until now. I have always loved appearing on the show as an adviser or performer and established an amazing relationship with the network during my Christmas special. I can’t wait to turn my chair and see the faces of up-and-coming artists and provide them with the help and support they’ve needed to break into the industry. Watch out Shelton, I’m comin’ to win!!" Clarkson said during her casting announcement in 2017.
During her time on the show, Clarkson has been a breath of fresh air. She's tailor-made for TV, and she has great rapport with her fellow judges, as well as the contestants.
Clarkson's time on the show has been memorable, but recently, she announced that she would not be participating in the upcoming season, something that fans were saddened to hear.
Spending Time With Her Family Caused Kelly Clarkson's Voice Departure
So, why is Kelly Clarkson taking a step back from the beloved competition show? Turns out, it's all about making time for what's important in her personal life.
"I've decided this year there's just [going to] be a couple of changes for me that I can't say here. There's a couple things happening. I've been able to make more time just for me and my kiddos and still be able to work. Just where we can get away on weekends and really do some fun stuff with my kids," Clarkson said.
That's a totally reasonable rationale for wanting to step away from work priorities. Time is a valuable commodity, and Clarkson clearly sees that she needs to utilize her time in a fresh way, one that includes her family unit.
"They only want to hang out with you for so long and that's now so I got to take advantage of that. I'm excited to have more time with them. I mean I have a ton of time in the morning but I don't know, I'm selfish. They're fun," she continued.
Even though fans were upset to learn of Clarkson's departure, most were understanding of her reasoning behind it.
Camila Cabello will serve in Clarkson's stead this upcoming season. Cabello is not nearly as loved as Clarkson is with the masses, but she has participated on the show previously, so she should be able to go great things while the cameras are rolling.
Kelly Clarkson's decision to step away from The Voice is an understandable one, and fans are optimistic that it won't be a permanent switch.