The Voice UK has returned for its new series on ITV, and viewers have immediately taken to social media to complain about the number of adverts interrupting the show. Within the first half hour, multiple fans expressed frustration at the frequency of commercial breaks, with one writing: "Almost 30 mins in and only 2 acts so far. Too many ads! #TheVoiceUK."
The singing competition sees amateur singers perform in the hope of impressing a panel of expert judges, who can turn their chairs to secure a place for the contestant on their team. The winner receives £100,000 and a record deal with Universal Republic.
New judge joins the panel
This year marks a significant change to the judging line-up, as former Destiny's Child star Kelly Rowland joins Will.i.am, Tom Jones, and McFly's Danny Jones and Tom Fletcher. The new panel has generated excitement, but the opening episode drew criticism for its pacing.
One viewer wrote on X, formerly Twitter: "There are more Ads Than The Actual Show." Another echoed the sentiment, saying: "So is the format singer advert singer advert. if that’s the case we’ll get five acts." A fourth complained: "2 ad breaks in 22 mins," while a fifth added: "Yes 22 mins in and 2 acts and 2 adverts."
Missing coach performance surprises fans
Beyond the adverts, viewers were also taken aback that the series did not open with the traditional performance by the coaches. This marked the first time in 15 years that the show launched without a group number from the judges.
One fan posted: "They got Kelly Rowland on the panel and for the first time in 15 years DIDN’T open the series with a coaches performance?! Fire the producers #TheVoiceUK." Another asked: "No coach performance?!? wtf #TheVoiceUK." A third added: "Did they not film a coaches performance this year or what."
Rewind Button proves popular
However, not all changes have been met with criticism. The show has introduced a new feature called the 'Rewind Button', which allows judges to give an act a second chance if no one turned their chair during the initial performance. This addition has been well received by fans.
Speaking about the format change, Danny Jones said: "The Rewind Button is a total game-changer! It's brilliant because it gives that extra bit of power to right a wrong."
The Voice UK continues next Saturday on ITV, with episodes available to catch up on ITVX.
