Signing up Kylie Minogue for The Voice was the BBC's way of proving that this singing contest - with its spinning chairs and blind auditions - could pack as much of a punch as The X-Factor, despite losing Danny O'Donoghue and Jessie J following its second season. The Australian was certainly a marquee signing, and alongside Tom Jones and Will.i.am (and the fella from Kaiser Chiefs), the BBC show had a judging line-up that could rival that of its ITV rival.

Jermaine JackmanJermaine Jackman Won 'The Voice'

Now, The Voice executives are on the hunt for another big name  to fill the gap left by Minogue, who has quit the show after just one season to focus on her live touring. 

"Due to timing of my tour I won't be back next season for The Voice UK," she wrote on Twitter. "Thanks to all who supported!"

"I absolutely loved my time on the show, and I'll miss all of the incredible people who were a part of my experience," the singer said.

Jermaine Jackman was crowned the winner of this year's series - the first victor of the BBC show that would probably have conquered all on The X-Factor too.

Jermaine Jackman Will.i.am The VoiceWill Will.i.am remain on the Voice without Kylie?

The problem for the BBC is not just replacing Minogue, but convincing Will.i.am - one of the biggest stars in the world - that a fourth season is worth his time. Kaiser Chiefs singer Ricky Wilson had already hinted that he would only stay should Minogue sign on the dotted line, though his latest album's entry at No.1 on the charts will probably be enough to persuade him to stay.

Although the latest season enjoyed a ratings spike during the auditions stages, the live final was the least successful yet. An average audience of 6.6 million tuned in for the show, down from 7.24 million 2012 and 7.1 million the year before.

Moira Ross, executive producer at production company Wall To Wall, said: "Kylie has brought her own very special magic to The Voice UK and we have loved having her on the show.

"We wish her well for her tour and hope to welcome her back in the future."

The Voice has been commissioned for another two seasons. The X-Factor returns this summer with Simon Cowell and Cheryl Cole back on the judging panel following the departure of Gary Barlow and Nicole Scherzinger. 

Kylie Minogue goes floral for The Great Gatsby screening: