The voice has been accused of racism and favoritism of “young white male country singers” after announcing the results of this season’s semifinals, which were determined by a public vote.
Anticipation mounted on Monday (December 5) and Tuesday (December 6) night during the two-part semifinals of the NBC contest, as the eight remaining cast members battled it out for a place in the finals.
It has been revealed that Blake Shelton’s three contestants – Bryce Leatherwood, Bodie and Brayden Lape – as well as Camila Cabello’s contestant Morgan Myles, have been deemed “safe” by viewers United States todayleaving the three John Legend cast members – Kim Cruse, Parijita Bastola and Omar Jose Cardona – and Gwen Stefani’s Justin Aaron in the bottom four.
While battling for fifth place in the finals, Cardona advanced with his cover of Lady Gaga’s “You and I.”
These results angered the online community, as the top four artists who received the most votes were white, while all acts remaining in the bottom four were all black. Many felt that the public votes did not reflect the talent of the contestants, but instead constituted acts of racism.
one tweeted“The demographic that is watching The voice is definitely racist and favors the young, white country singers. They’re not even the most talented. Let a POC get the spotlight they deserve.”
Another wrote: “This show is racist. The producers should be ashamed. The best voices stay put.”
“America is clearly delusional, confused and oh, can’t forget, racist” written a third ended his tweet with #TheVoice.
The competition series has run for 22 seasons since its premiere in 2011 and has never been shy about presenting a diverse lineup of competitors, with previous winners including Javier Colon, Jermaine Paul and Cam Anthony; Historically, however, a majority of emerging participants are predominantly white.
The show has also gone through a variety of trainers, but seems to prioritize the visuals above all else and avoid overlap. When it comes to black male trainers, Cee Lo Green originated the role in seasons 1-3 and 5 and was replaced by Usher in seasons 4 and 6. Following Usher’s departure in season 7, Alicia Keys was signed for seasons 11-12 and 14, replaced by Jennifer Hudson for seasons 13 and 15, and the pattern continues.
In comparison, Blake Shelton and Adam Levine have trained alongside Kelly Clarkson and Gwen Stefani (also with Shelton).
With current coach Legend taking a leave of absence for next season, Chance is the rapper should be his successor.
Decider reached out to NBC for comment but received no response at the time of publication.
The voiceThe two-part finale will air December 12-13 on NBC.