The Voice EXCLUSIVE: Contestants’ strict contract means Nine can eliminate them at any time – even if they’re ‘winning’ with the public
Every year, The Voice Australia gives undiscovered singers the chance to win a $100,000 cash prize and a record contract with EMI.
But signing up for the competition comes at a price, as all the contestants must sign a lengthy contract that allows producers to send them home at any time.
Daily Mail Australia understands that Channel Nine can eliminate a singer from the show at a whim, even if they are popular with the public.
EXCLUSIVE: ‘The Voice’ contestants must sign a strict contract that says Nine can ELIMINATE them anytime – even if they’re ‘winning’ with the PUBLIC. Pictured singer Adam Ludewig
While it’s not known if the competition will introduce a public voting system this year due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the show’s original contract states that Nine has the right to overrule the viewers’ decision.
This gives the network the freedom to steer the reality show in any direction they want.
By signing the contract, the contestants also agree they have no control over how they are portrayed on screen.
Speaking to Daily Mail Australia, an insider has revealed one clause of the document states contestants can be sent home at any time, even if they’re a favourite with audiences
Furthermore, the production company has the right ‘to change the rules’ at any time.
This was demonstrated during the 2020 season when Guy Sebastian ignored the rules by turning his chair for a singer during the Blinds when he already had a full team.
Contestants are also prohibited from telling anyone the details of their contract.
Rigged: While it’s not known if the competition will introduce a public voting system this year, the program’s original contract states the show can ignore the public’s votes
Meanwhile, the contract protects Nine, ITV and the producers from possible legal action.
The Voice UK’s contract, which is believed to be similar to the Australian one, states that applicants who have prior contractual arrangements in place are subject to disqualification.
It comes after ousted contestant Bukhu Ganburged revealed he was ‘relieved’ to have been sent home from the competition.
The production company also has the right ‘to change reality show’s rules’ at any time. This was demonstrated throughout this year’s season when a furious Kelly Rowland accused Guy Sebastian (pictured) of ‘cheating’
The Mongolian throat singer had lost his place in Team Guy following his duet with Johnny Manuel.
Speaking to Daily Mail Australia last month he said: ‘I’m just so happy with my past, because I’ve already set up my music career and don’t really care about [The Voice]’.
Daily Mail Australia has contacted Channel Nine and ITV for comment.
This year’s season of The Voice has seen a production shake-up due to COVID-19 restrictions – which could mean the entire voting process of the show will be decided by producers. Pictured from left: Boy George, Delta Goodrem, Darren McMullen, Renee Bargh, Guy Sebastian and Kelly Rowland