Kelly Clarkson spurns American Idol for The Voice season 14 gig

Well, this is awkward: Kelly Clarkson opted to not join the upcoming American Idol revival on Thursday; instead, she’s heading to The Voice for the upcoming fourteenth season set to premiere on NBC in the spring. Presumably, she will be in the chair held in the fall by Miley Cyrus.

In trying come up with the right metaphor for this move, it’d almost like the Verizon guy now doing commercials for Sprint — nobody saw it coming. All discussions revolved around Kelly being a judge on the show that made her a story, but clearly she had other plans. In terms of risk, The Voice holds a lot of the cards given that there really isn’t any. It’s an institution, it’s a positive and encouraging series, and above all that, there is no travel component at all. The auditions all take place in Los Angeles, as do the middle rounds and the live shows. It bears many fruits, and pays very well in the process.

In a statement confirming her new gig, Clarkson said the following:

“I’m so excited to join The Voice at NBC … We’ve gone back and forth about a role as a coach for years, but the timing hasn’t been right until now. I have always loved appearing on the show as an adviser or performer and established an amazing relationship with the network during my Christmas special. I can’t wait to turn my chair and see the faces of up-and-coming artists and provide them with the help and support they’ve needed to break into the industry. Watch out Shelton, I’m comin’ to win!!”

There is an established friendship between Kelly and Blake Shelton, as evidenced in the statement. NBC confirmed today that Adam Levine will join the two for season 14; there is no confirmation as of yet on the fourth judge for the season. Jennifer Hudson will hold the position alongside Miley, Adam, and Blake for season 13.

This leaves American Idol in a pickle, given that the ABC revival needs to now find someone who will attract former viewers to the show. Simon Cowell is not available because of an exclusive deal with NBC and America’s Got Talent. Should they pursue Carrie Underwood? Her status as a country music superstar makes her an appealing target.

Do you think The Voice season 14 serves Kelly better than American Idol would? Share in the comments!

For more on The Voice and its coming seasons, head over to the link here. (Photo: NBC.)