ITV axe The Voice Kids to ‘free up space’ for new shows

Channel bosses have decided not to bring back The Voice Kids, hosted by Emma Willis and has a panel comprised of McFly’s Danny Jones, Pixie Lott, Ronan Keating and Will.i.am, for 2024.

An ITV spokesman said other Voice spin-offs were in the works.

A source told The Sun on Sunday newspaper’s TV Bizarre column: “The show had a good run and had its own fanbase, but execs are keen to free up scheduling space for other new programming to keep ideas as fresh as possible.

The show was presented by Emma Willis (Image: Bang Showbiz)

“The cast have great memories from the series but have plenty of other projects to keep them busy.”

An ITV spokesman added: “The Voice Kids is taking a break in 2024.

“We’re working with Lifted Entertainment on The Voice UK for 2024 and development of The Voice-branded specials.”

Last month, Ronan – who has Jack, 24. Missy, 22, and Ali, 17, with his ex-wife Yvonne Connolly and Cooper, six, and Coco, three, with his spouse Storm – praised the “mesmerising” children who take part in the show.

The 46-year-old singer told The Sun newspaper: “I have kids the same age as some of the talent that stood on stage, and to see them with such confidence and such ability at that age is mesmerising.

“I am always honest, but sometimes it is hard as these kids are just starting out on their journeys.

“You want to keep the dream alive and give them the right criticism in the most positive way.”

Ronan’s fellow judge Will.I.am praised one of his mentees and her “advanced” songwriting ability.

The 48-year-old rapper told the same paper: “One of my team wrote this song, and I said to her, ‘No way.’ It was like, wow!

“She is just so advanced at songwriting already.

“There are some adults that I know that aren’t nearly as good at writing.

Earlier this month, the most recent series was won by sisters Andrea and Shanice Nyandoro.