A major change is coming to The Voice, but longtime fans won’t have to say goodbye to Carson Daly just yet.
After more than a decade as the face of NBC’s hit singing competition, Daly is stepping into a different role as Keke Palmer takes over hosting duties for the new spinoff, The Voice: Celebrity.
The decision surprised some longtime viewers, but reports suggest NBC has a clear reason for bringing Palmer into the spotlight.
Why NBC chose Keke Palmer
The Voice has been part of NBC’s lineup since 2011, with Daly hosting the franchise from the beginning. Now, the network is looking to give the new celebrity edition a different identity.
According to a source, NBC wanted “fresh energy” for the spinoff, along with a younger personality who could connect with a broader audience and generate more attention across social media.
Palmer appears to fit that vision. With her experience in television, entertainment and live hosting, along with her strong social media presence, she brings a different style and energy to the franchise.
The new Voice: Celebrity will feature famous faces competing in the familiar singing competition format, including the popular blind auditions.
Carson Daly isn’t going anywhere
While Palmer is taking over the hosting duties for the celebrity edition, Daly remains an important part of The Voice.
Rather than leaving the franchise, he will continue behind the scenes as an executive producer. Daly has also made it clear publicly that he supports the change.
Following Palmer’s announcement, he reassured fans that he is still involved with the franchise and explained that NBC is experimenting with different formats.
For Daly, the move appears to be less about being replaced and more about taking on a different role while allowing someone new to lead the celebrity edition.
Keke Palmer’s reported salary is also much lower
The change comes with a significant difference in reported pay.
Daly is reportedly earning close to $6 million per season when his hosting and producer responsibilities are combined. His compensation has grown over the years as he became one of the central figures behind the franchise.
Palmer, meanwhile, is reportedly set to earn around $2 million for hosting the new celebrity format.
The difference is largely tied to their roles. Palmer’s reported deal focuses on hosting, while Daly’s long-standing relationship with the franchise includes executive producer duties as well.
A new era for The Voice
With Palmer stepping in front of the cameras and Daly remaining involved behind the scenes, NBC is essentially giving The Voice a fresh twist without completely moving on from one of its most recognizable faces.
Now, the big question is whether Palmer can deliver the fresh energy NBC is looking for—and whether longtime fans will embrace the new direction.
For now, both stars have a place in the franchise, just in very different ways.