In an unexpected twist, Snoop Dogg revealed his sentimental side during the season 26 premiere of The Voice, showcasing that even the most hardened rap icons can shed a tear. Joined by fellow coaches Reba McEntire, Gwen Stefani, and Michael Bublé, Snoop was not only there to critique performances but also to champion the emotional journeys of the contestants.
From the outset, it was clear that the panel was deeply invested in the talents auditioning for the show. This season, the coaches are committed to nurturing the artists’ growth, even in the early Blind Auditions. Multiple instances arose where they took the time to offer constructive feedback, setting a tone of encouragement that resonated throughout the episode.
One poignant moment unfolded when 23-year-old Ben Fagerstedt, a crooner and fan of Michael Bublé, performed “I’ve Got You Under My Skin.” Despite not securing any chair turns from the coaches, Bublé was moved enough to join Ben on stage for a duet, offering invaluable guidance on the nuances of singing traditional standards versus a more contemporary style. Witnessing this heartfelt interaction brought Snoop to tears, who later remarked, “That’s what this show is about, to make these people better at what they do, whether they make it to the show or not.”
Snoop’s emotional journey continued as he watched Reba McEntire utilize a new feature this season: the Coach Replay button. This allows coaches to reconsider their decision after a performance. When country singer Kendall Eugene performed Morgan Wallen’s “Don’t Think Jesus” and failed to receive any turns, Reba expressed immediate regret. After providing feedback, she chose to use her replay on Kendall, ultimately bringing him onto her team. The moment was filled with raw emotion, with Kendall breaking down in tears, overwhelmed by the unexpected opportunity.
Snoop Dogg, always the empathetic spirit, found himself wiping away tears once again, stating, “When I see a man cry, it makes me cry.” His heartfelt reaction underscored the emotional weight of the moment and the significance of the journey for artists pursuing their dreams.
These touching scenes in the premiere highlight Snoop’s commitment to the show’s mission of empowerment and personal growth. As the season progresses, fans are left wondering how much more emotional depth will unfold as the coaches fully invest in their teams.
With only one episode down, it’s clear that The Voice season 26 is poised to be a rollercoaster of talent and tears. As the coaches dive deeper into their roles, viewers may find themselves reaching for tissues right alongside the D-O-double-G.