Amid Falling Ratings, Jessie J Quits 'The Voice' To Focus On New Album

Jessie J (real name Jessica Cornish) will not appear as a judge on the next season of The Voice, the singer has announced. She is leaving the show to focus on her own career and focus on her upcoming album.

The singer has her musical career to think of.

"I've absolutely loved my time on The Voice and I hope everyone saw and knows how passionately I felt about the show," the 25-year-old singer tweeted earlier today (July 5). "However, I can't wait to promote my new record around the world and that has to take priority," she noted in explanation of why she could no longer handle the long-term, time consuming gig on the BBC show’s judging panel.

Amid falling ratings and long-standing rumours of changes to the panel, the possibility emerges that Jessie’s departure was actually mandated by the network. However, if her public statements are anything to go by, the split has been nothing if not amicable on the former judge’s part.

But was this the only reason?

"I shall be keeping a very close eye on series 3 showing my support in every way I can and really hope that in some way that I can be part of the show," Jessie J also said on Twitter.

It seems that the BBC is also keeping the precise events that led to the singer’s departure under wraps. Mark Linsey, controller, entertainment commissioning at the BBC, said: "We’re so sorry to see Jessie go as she’s been an exceptional coach on, and advocate for, The Voice, but we totally support her decision to leave due to touring commitments overseas." Regardless of what the future brings for Cornish. However, the show must go on. Discussion as already heating up as to who might be called in to replace her in the big red chair. So far however, no names have been announced.

Falling ratings have also been cited.