The Script frontman Danny O’Donoghue has become the second coach to leave The Voice, having announced his departure today (July 16).
The singer follows Jessie J in leaving the BBC talent show and announced that he was not returning for the third series when it returns in 2014. Jessie J announced her departure following the final of the programme’s second series earlier this month.
Declaring his decision on Twitter, O’Donoghue wrote: “I had two wonderful seasons on The Voice and as everybody knows I gave it my heart and soul and couldn’t be more proud of the show and what we have achieved. My focus will be on The Script moving forward as we are about to embark on the most important part of our career as a band.”
O’Donoghue’s departure was confirmed by the BBC on their Twitter page, writing: “Danny O’Donoghue will not be returning to @BBCTheVoiceUK for next year’s series due to recording commitments with The Script. Danny has been a star on #TheVoiceUK but we understand that he has to focus on his music career – The Script have a busy year ahead. We are very sorry to see Danny go but wish him and the band the very best and hope they will come back and perform for us next series.”
The Voice 2013 was won by 27-year-old Andrea Begley, who emerged victorious over Mike Ward, Leah McFall and Matt Henry in the June 22 final, earning a “lucrative” recording contract as her prize. It is not yet known if Sir Tom Jones and will.i.am, The Voice‘s only remaining coaches, will return to the show next year.