In a recent interview on Late Night with Seth Meyers, Reba McEntire candidly discussed her initial reluctance to become a coach on The Voice. She revealed that she initially turned down the opportunity because she was uncomfortable with the idea of critiquing aspiring singers. “I was really dreading it at first because I don’t want to tell anybody they suck,” McEntire admitted.
McEntire had previously declined the role when the show first originated from Holland, expressing hesitation about giving negative feedback that might discourage contestants. However, she eventually joined as a full-time coach in Season 24, after participating as a part-time advisor in earlier seasons.
Her perspective changed when she observed the show’s supportive and encouraging environment. “But the way we did it on the first time I was on The Voice, it was more helpful and encouraging,” she noted. “And everybody that’s coming back now—Snoop, Michael, myself, and Niall—we’re nice people. We encourage, we lift up.”
McEntire’s coaching tenure has been marked by success; she coached Asher HaVon to victory in Season 25, becoming the fifth female coach to win the competition. She is set to return for Season 28 later this year, continuing her role alongside fellow coaches Snoop Dogg, Niall Horan, and Michael Bublé.
In addition to her work on The Voice, McEntire remains active in the entertainment industry, hosting the 2025 ACM Awards and starring in the sitcom Happy’s Place. She also recently released a new single, “Trailblazer,” featuring Miranda Lambert and Lainey Wilson, celebrating her 50 years in country music.