Kylie Minogue - The Gay Say

Kylie Minogue

Wow! ‘The Voice’ just got even better… Kylie Minogue is joining as a coach!

The BBC announced today that Minogue is taking over from Jessie J on the next series of the talent contest.

The Australian pop singer will join will.i.am and Tom Jones on the BBC One music show in January, along with another as yet unnamed coach, according to a post on the official The Voice blog.

Minogue has been linked to the position since late August after Jessie J announced her departure in July. She was rumoured to have turned down a £1 million deal to join the show when it launched in 2011.

She said of her appointment: “I’m very excited to become a Coach on The Voice. I love the concept of the show and have been an avid viewer of both series.

“The search for new talent is such an important aspect of the music industry and The Voice gives us all a part to play in that. Will I be competitive? Probably more than even I imagine! Watch this space!”

Black Eyed Peas singer will.i.am added: “While I will miss Danny and Jessie, I’m excited to be returning for Season 3 and to work with Kylie and Tom. Together we will mix it up and bring new energy and ideas to the show.”

Jones said: “I’m really looking forward to series 3 of The Voice and although I’ll miss Jessie and Danny, Kylie and the fourth coach will be a welcome addition to the line-up.”

Danny O’Donoghue, a former judge and singer with pop band The Script, revealed that he would be not be joining the third series of ‘The Voice’ shortly after Jessie J announced she was leaving. His replacement will be announced in the next few weeks.

By Chris McMurray