John Legend is speaking out about Blake Shelton‘s impending departure from The Voice. Shelton recently announced that he would leave the reality TV talent show, where he has been since its inception in 2011, after Season 23 next year.

“Well, you know, he’s been doing the show for 22 seasons, it’ll be 23 when he’s done, and you can’t do something forever,” Legend reflected to Entertainment Tonight. “We’re gonna miss him though. He’s been the heart and soul and anchor of the show for a long time, and he’s a friend of mine, and I really enjoy working with him … We’re all gonna miss him.”

Legend is coaching this year, alongside Shelton, Gwen Stefani and Camila Cabello. But the 43-year-old, whose wife, Chrissy Teigen, is currently pregnant, will not be returning for Season 23.

“My family’s growing, I have a new album out. I’m gonna do a little bit of touring, and so it’s probably better that I take a break,” Legend shared. “We took a break last season because we had another show in our slot that the network tried — and I thought that was gonna happen this season, but it ended up that they wanted us back…but I’ll be back on The Voice, just not this coming season.”

Shelton announced on social media that he had made the difficult decision to leave The Voice.

“I’ve been wrestling with this for a while and I’ve decided that it’s time for me to step away from The Voice after next season,” the singer shared. “This show has changed my life in every way for the better and it will always feel like home to me. It’s been a hell of a ride over these 12 years of chair turns and I want to thank everyone at The Voice from NBC, every producer, the writers, musicians, crew and catering people, you are the best. It takes a lot of work, passion, and adult beverages (Ha!) to pull off a live show twice a week.

“I’ve made lifelong bonds with Carson [Daly] and every single one [of] my fellow coaches over the years, including my wife Gwen Stefani!” he continued. “I have to give a huge shoutout to the singers – the ‘Voices,’ who come on this stage season after season and amaze us with their talent and a special thanks to those who chose me to be their coach.”

Kelly Clarkson will join Shelton for his final season, along with newcomers Chance the Rapper and Niall Horan.

The Voice airs on Monday and Tuesday nights at 8:00 PM ET on NBC.

Read ‘Blake Shelton: 11 Things to Know About the Country Music Superstar’ here.