Olly Murs, Jennifer Hudson, will.i.am and Sir Tom Jones have been confirmed as the new judges for the forthcoming series of ‘The Voice’ on ITV.
The former ‘X Factor’ runner-up was one of the names thrown around when Gavin Rossdale was dropped from the panel earlier this year, but speculation over who will take his place in the new instalment has finally been shut down as Olly has revealed he will be joining the fellow coaches when the singing show returns to screens in January.
He said: "I’m absolutely buzzing about being a coach on ‘The Voice UK’ and can’t wait to sit in the big red chair alongside will, Jennifer and Tom."
But, although he can’t wait to work with his new co-stars, the 33-year-old singer is determined that one of his acts will win the show as he won’t give up without a fight.
He added: "I’m excited to mentor new artists and without doubt, I’m in it to WIN!"
Olly’s new gig comes two years after he was dropped from his presenting position on ‘The X Factor’, which he hosted with Caroline Flack, following a number of gaffes.
But, despite leaving the show, Simon Cowell – who is the boss of ‘The X Factor’ – is reportedly upset that Olly has decided to jump ship and work on the rival series.
A source said recently: "Simon isn’t happy Olly’s swapped allegiances, especially as he left the ‘The X Factor’ to concentrate on his music."
Gavin – who has Kingston, 11, Zuma, nine, and Apollo, three, with his former partner Gwen Stefani, as well as 28-year-old Daisy Lowe with Pearl Lowe – was axed from ‘The Voice’ earlier this year as bosses didn’t feel like he had the right energy.
Jennifer, will.i.am and Sir Tom were also involved in last year’s series.