Viewers of The Voice are split over the two new coaches who made their debut in the season 26 premiere of the popular singing competition.

Some fans are excited about the new panelists, calling them “phenomenal” additions, while others find them “disgraceful” and “cringy.” As always, the changes have ignited quite a conversation among the audience.

Season 26 of The Voice launched on September 23, introducing two fresh faces ready to spin their iconic coach chairs.

John Legend, a coach since 2018, and Chance the Rapper, who joined in season 23, stepped down. In their place, Michael Bublé and Snoop Dogg took a seat alongside veteran mentors Reba McEntire and Gwen Stefani.

Speaking with People, Snoop explained that becoming part of the cast feels “like a lost family reunion.”

“It feels like we’ve been together our whole lives, and we just reunited. The camaraderie and the chemistry on set, it’s magic,” the 52-year-old rapper and songwriter said.

“I think that when people see this season, they’re going to be re-energized with the feeling of The Voice. How it used to be, how it used to feel. It’s exciting for the artists and the coaches because we care a lot, and you can see that on screen.”

‘Brothers from Another Mother’

Discussing the close bond he’s formed with Bublé, Snoop shared, “Who would’ve thought? But I’ve been known to have pairings with people you wouldn’t expect, and it just feels like me and Bublé are lost brothers.” The “Drop It Like It’s Hot” rapper believes he and Bublé are “like brothers from another mother.”

“We love the same things, we agree to disagree, and it’s just beautiful to find someone in my career who shares my views. We connect both on and off screen,” Snoop said.

Michael Bublé echoed those sentiments, gushing about his newfound friendship with Snoop, who, alongside Dr. Dre, recently founded a cocktail brand named after their 1994 hit “Gin and Juice.”

“I love you so much I’m not joking… I was terrified you wouldn’t be who you are. I was super excited to do this with you,” the Grammy Award-winning singer said at a recent roundtable event. “You exceeded my expectations, you’re better than I ever thought you could be.”

‘Judges are Phenomenal’

The chemistry among the judges is evident on screen, and many fans were thrilled with the season premiere.

“This season is going to be great. Awesome judges who interact well with each other. No awkwardness. They all seem genuine,” one fan commented on the show’s Instagram page.

“This season’s coaches are hilarious! I love this team together!” another fan shared.

“Best show opening in the history of this show! Judges are phenomenal and work well together. They’re genuinely kind to contestants! Love addition of Snoop and Michael,” penned a third.

Many fans were especially excited about having Snoop on the show: “Snoop you did amazing, your spirit and how you show your emotions. I loved you before and love you even more now,” one wrote, while another added, “Snoop Dogg is hilariously funny, and everyone seemed to get along and have a good time.”

Another fan admitted, “I had my doubts about Snoop, but now I think the show should make him a permanent judge.”

‘Disgraceful’

However, not all viewers welcomed the changes with open arms. Some fans were unhappy with Snoop’s addition to The Voice.

“Banning this season due to Snoop Dogg! Disgraceful,” one viewer commented, while another said, “Get rid of Snoop!”

Another fan was upset by Snoop handing out chains with the Death Row Records logo, the iconic hip-hop label he now owns.

“Snoop is a cringy judge! Him trying to teach a contestant about branding and marketing was way out there!!!”

In the past, John Legend gave his team customized jackets, Chance the Rapper handed out hats, and Dan + Shay gifted baseball jerseys to their contestants.

Continuing her critique, the same viewer criticized Gwen Stefani’s return: “Not sure why they brought back Gwen. She was only fun when Blake [Shelton] was a judge. I love Michael, but honestly, the show is starting to bore me.”

‘Tired of Gwen’

Gwen Stefani, who replaced Christina Aguilera in season seven, also sparked negative reactions from some fans.

“So we’re only nine minutes into the show and Gwen Stefani is already irritating,” one viewer wrote, while another said, “10 minutes in and I’m already tired of Gwen.”

A third viewer added, “Wish someone else was in Gwen’s spot.”

What are your thoughts on the new judges of The Voice? Share your opinions and let’s keep the conversation going!