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The Voice has been rocked by two contestants’ shock decision to leave the hit show, live on stage.
During Sunday’s Ultimate Callbacks episode, Dobe Newton and Roger Corbett – who are The Bushwackers – announced they would be quitting The Voice, leaving judges Jess Mauboy, Guy Sebastian, Jason Derulo and Rita Ora stunned.
But there was an easy-to-miss detail from earlier in the show that may have hinted that the pair were planning their surprise move way before they even hit the stage.
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Dobe and Roger announced their decision while coach Jess struggled to choose between The Bushwackers and fellow performer Ezra Williams after they both delivered strong performances.
“This is a really tough one. I originally grouped you guys together because you are family,” said Jess, who was clearly emotional.
“Ezra, you’re so super fierce and I don’t think you know that. I just think you’re incredible, amazing. And when you tap into that, you roar.
“Dobe and Roger, you really are characters and such incredible personalities. And standing beside you, I just felt so completely elevated and wise.
“Um, I really think this is the hardest decision I’ll ever have to make – and I genuinely mean that. I really don’t know what to do – and that’s on me.”
As Jess became more overcome, Dobe interrupted her deliberations to make the announcement.
“I don’t want to interrupt, Jess, but I think we can make this easier for you,” he said.
When the audience reacted loudly to his words, Dobe continued: “No, no, no. This show and the challenges to come, we think are about people just beginning on their career journey.
“So, Rog and I have decided that you need Ezra in your battle team.”
Stunned, host Sonia Kruger stepped in to make sure the pair knew what they were doing.
“Can I just clarify that you’re saying you want to step aside and not continue in the competition?” Sonia asked.
“Yes,” Dobe answered.
“As much as we’re having a wonderful time, this is about the future – and Ezra is the future.”
Responding to the unbelievable move, Guy told The Bushwackers: “That’s very honourable, very kind.”
But earlier in the episode – when Jess was giving her song choices to both acts – Dobe provided a hint that they were perhaps considering leaving the show.
When they found out they were going to compete against Ezra, Dobe said he was impressed by her talent – and believed she would make it in the music industry.
“Her performance at the Callbacks was just astonishing,” he said.
“When you see people that good, and they’re that young, there’s every chance they will achieve significantly in their career.”
The comment left some to note that The Bushwackers had always wanted Ezra to move to the next round ahead of them.
Speaking of the turn of events, Sonia later said: “That’s very generous.”
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