[zakman440]

Great news for The Voice fans - will.i.am will be returning as coach for the brand new series of The Voice UK on ITV as it has been officially confirmed that the rapper will remain involved with the new-look show when it returns later this year.

The Black Eyed Peas star, who has also signed on to take part in spin-off show The Voice Kids, shared his excitement and even poked fun at Brexit in a statement confirming his return.

"I'm delighted to be continuing The Voice UK on ITV and being a voice of direction and guidance for the usual suspects," he said. "And I'm thrilled to add The Voice Kids to the mix.

"I know The Voice switched to ITV, but I'm not going to BREXIT The Voice UK. I'm happy to make ITV my home now. I love the UK."

The announcement comes just days after he took a swipe at the show and its lack of success, claiming that the only reason shows like The X Factor do better is that they have Simon Cowell at the helm.

Siobhan Greene, Head of Entertainment, ITV Network added: "We are thrilled to bits that will.i.am's signed up to ITV for The Voice UK and The Voice Kids.

"He's such an important part of the DNA of the show and that was one of the many reasons we had to have him in his chair. Will's eye for talent, and unique and creative flair for mentoring means we can't wait to see what happens next."

Meanwhile, Emma Willis has confirmed she will be back as host of The Voice UK when it returns on ITV, but Marvin Humes will be parting ways with the talent show.

Jess Glynne recently said that she turned down the chance to be a coach, explaining that she was approached but it's not something she wants to do at the moment.

Among the rumoured contenders for the new panel are Sir Paul McCartney, Rachel Stevens, Katy B, Jennifer Hudson, Robbie Williams and Kylie Minogue.

ITV announced earlier this year that it has picked up The Voice UK for three series from 2017, as well as two series of The Voice Kids.

http://www.digitalspy.com/tv/the-voi...-uk-coach-itv/

God why - it's the way they centre the show around him that makes me want to switch off