‘The Voice’ Fans Are Devastated Niall Horan Isn’t Returning For Season 25: ‘Won’t Be The Same’

This post has been updated since its original publication date to include new info

Fans of The Voice often gush about coach Niall Horan‘s quick wit and charming demeanor, frequently seen in his interactions with fellow judges John Legend, Gwen Stefani and Reba McEntire especially. However, fans will no longer be seeing these playful exchanges, as the former One Direction member is officially missing from the lineup for the brand new season, which is due to start later this month.

The official The Voice Instagram account teased the new judging lineup on February 2nd, when it revealed that the first episode of Season 25 will be arriving on February 26th. The coaching panel will consist of John Legend and Reba McEntire, who return for their ninth and second seasons respectively. Also returning is Chance the Rapper, who will be back for his second season following a one-season hiatus. Popular pop duo Dan + Shay, who filled in for Horan during some episodes last season, will be joining as the show’s first coaching duo; and yes, that means a double swivel chair too!

While some fans were understandably excited for the new season to kick off, most of Horan’s fans expressed their disappointment that he was missing from the show. “Nope why would you do that? You got rid of Kelly and now [Niall] wrong wrong wrong,” wrote one disappointed fan, referencing the fact that Kelly Clarkson is also no longer on the show.

“Bring back Niall,” demanded another fan, as another said, “I will miss u Niall,” followed by the sad face emoji. “Won’t be the same without Niall and of course Blake,” said another, in reference to Blake Shelton no longer being on the show. “Niall was the best thing since Blake. He’ll be missed,” wrote another, as another fan concurred, writing: “Amazing coaches but Niall Horan will be missed.”

Many fans pointed out that Horan is missing from the show as he is going on tour, so could very likely be back for future seasons. The Voice fans will remember that he also took some time off from the show last season, telling fans that filming clashed with his busy tour schedule.