During The Voice Season 26, Episode 15, Gwen Stefani made the difficult decision to send one of her strongest vocalists, Jose Luis, home just before the live shows.
READ MORE: The Voice faces more drama as another contestant quits the show just a week after country singer Tanner Frick left Michael Bublé’s team
In this episode, Gwen showcased five of her artists for the Playoffs debut, with only two contestants advancing to the live shows. Among the performers, Jose Luis stood out as a strong contender, with Gwen herself calling him a “monster in the game.” Despite expressing that she didn’t know how to coach him, Gwen viewed Jose Luis as a valuable asset to her team.
Jose Luis chose Mary J. Blige’s “No More Drama” for his performance, a song that held deep personal significance as it represented his escape from childhood bullying. His powerful and polished performance earned praise for its emotional depth and professional delivery, marking a standout moment in the season.
Many fans were impressed by his stage presence and vocal ability, seeing this performance as a defining moment in his journey on the show.
READ MORE:
- ‘The Voice’ fans react to Gwen Stefani’s surprising advisor pick, expressing disappointment for reasons that were hard to predict
- Gwen Stefani makes a shocking decision, sending a ‘full package’ performance home after positive feedback on The Voice
However, in a surprising turn, Gwen ultimately decided to send Jose Luis home, selecting Jan Dan and Sydney Sterlace to represent her team in the live shows. This decision raised questions about her strategy for the upcoming live performances and the potential impact on her chances of winning this season.
Audience Reactions
“Jose could’ve won, im actually speechless.”
“Jose Luis was the best on this season and he should win”
“Standing ovation from all 4 of them!!! None other artists got it on her team. And the winning potential. God have mercy.”
“Oh Gwenn!!!! How could you let this beauty go😢😢😢😢😢”
“Easily the most complete performance this season. He absolutely owned that stage.”
“This is just the beginning for Jose Luis.. really hope someone reaches out to him make an album and produces.”
“He was the best!! The best voice I pray someone will see his talent and give him a chance!”
READ MORE: Gwen Stefani feels ‘guilty’ about her move on ‘The Voice’ and thinks Reba McEntire is ‘mad’ at her
“Gwen’s team doesn’t stand a chance without Jose!!! He was my favorite!!!!”
“he lost the match but left his soul…forever to be remembered as one of the best that ever walked on the voice stage ❤️”
“He should have WON!!!!😢😢 That was the best version of that song I have ever heard!!!!”
“Jose you own the Voice… Hands down! Coach got this sooo wrong! Best to you… Hope the stars align for a long career!”
‘The Voice’: Gwen Stefani Speaks Out After Making ‘Difficult’ Selections for Live Shows
“I feel proud, and I feel honored that each one of you guys let me hang out with you and help you,” the “Hollerback Girl” singer said. “This is really, really difficult. One thing that saves me all the time is that we’re all going home, and this is just a moment in your life.”
“Whatever you do with this moment is going to be the next part of your life. That does give me comfort,” she continued. “I’m going by who I think I can coach and help grow into that identity that they already are showing me that they have.”
READ MORE: Gwen Stefani follows her heart in ‘The Voice’ battle, but fans blame her song choice for a contestant’s exit
In an interview afterward, Stefani explained her choices, saying of Jan Dan, “He’s just, he’s too unique. He has so much taste and he has such a perspective that I just wanted to give him the opportunity to share that with America in the lives.”
As for Sterlace, Stefani added, “I had to go with Sydney. It was just a gut feeling. She moves me. She gets on that stage and I want to see more… I just can’t let her go home. These playoffs are just so emotional.”
Did Stefani make the right choices? Let us know your thoughts in the comments section below.
