Keith Urban returned to The Voice Australia judges’ panel for two seasons beginning in 2021, but now he is stepping away again. R&B and pop star Jason Derulo has been announced as his replacement, joining fellow coaches Jessica Mauboy, Rita Ora and Guy Sebastian on the upcoming season.
Seven’s Chief Content Officer for Entertainment Programming, Angus Ross, said: “The Voice is one of the biggest entertainment brands globally and in Australia, and we are very excited to welcome one of the biggest stars in the world into the Seven family and to The Voice Australia. Jason is a sensational addition to our line-up of superstar coaches Jess, Rita and Guy and we can’t wait to see who they turn their iconic red chairs for this season.”
Jason Derulo brings substantial global pop and R&B credentials to the show. He is an established recording artist with numerous international hits and extensive performance experience. This will not be his first role on a televised talent panel: he served as a judge on So You Think You Can Dance in 2015 and 2016, and he guest-judged on The Voice of Germany in 2017. His presence on the Australian version adds an international star power that could broaden the show’s appeal and provide contestants with a commercially minded, performance-focused perspective.
For viewers and aspiring contestants, Jason’s appointment signals an emphasis on contemporary pop sensibilities and global marketability. As a coach, he is likely to draw on his studio experience, touring background and knowledge of crafting radio-ready hits—assets that many contestants will find valuable when refining their artistry and stagecraft.
Keith Urban’s departure appears linked to a busy performance schedule and new music plans. He has been occupied with a Las Vegas residency that included three separate legs in 2023 (spring, summer and fall). Earlier this year he released the single “Brown Eyed Baby,” and he is scheduled to perform at major country-music events such as the CMT Music Awards and CMA Fest. These commitments, combined with ongoing touring and recording activities, help explain his decision to step away from the panel once again.
Could Keith Urban be leaving The Voice AU to join The Voice USA?
Speculation has already started about what Keith might do next. He previously left The Voice Australia after season one to join the judges’ panel of American Idol, so a return to U.S. television would not be unprecedented. Some industry observers have suggested he could be considered to fill the country-coach role on the U.S. version of The Voice following departures in that panel. Keith has deep experience as a television coach and judge, and he has strong country credentials; he was even invited previously to serve as a Battle Round advisor by Blake Shelton, showing a history of collaboration with U.S. country television talent shows.
That said, there are many country artists who could take on a stateside coaching role, and networks typically weigh chemistry, audience appeal and scheduling before making any moves. If producers prioritize a proven television coach with international crossover appeal, Keith would be a compelling option. At this stage, any talk of a U.S. return remains speculative rather than confirmed.
Production timelines are already shaping up: the fall cycle of the U.S. version typically begins taping in the summer, and broadcasters often finalize and announce panel lineups in the spring. In the case of NBC’s talent shows, public announcements about coaching panels are commonly expected before the end of May.
Meanwhile, The Voice Australia moves forward with a refreshed coaching lineup featuring a mix of local icons and international stars. With Jason Derulo now on board alongside Jessica Mauboy, Rita Ora and Guy Sebastian, the show aims to blend diverse musical perspectives and a mix of commercial and artistic expertise to mentor the next generation of Australian vocal talent.