With “The Voice’s” live shows approaching, Michael Bublé had to choose two contestants to advance to the top eight. Unfortunately, his decisions generated criticism from netizens who believed another contestant deserved a slot more than anyone else. The singing competition published a clip from a recent episode of “The Voice” on Instagram. In the video, Michael Bublé faced the difficult decision of excluding three of his five team members from the live performances.
After strongly saying that everyone of his team members deserved a shot, Bublé chose Sofronio Vasquez and Shye Roberts. The surviving contestants, Sloane Simon, Jaukeem Fortson, and Cameron Wright, thanked those who made the top eight, however not everyone agreed with the musician’s elimination choices.
Fortson’s admirers instantly rallied around him. One tearful user said, “You deserved to make it to the lives; they just made a terrible mistake by not picking you. 😭.” Another admirer said, “I’m so sad!!! “You were the most talented, interesting, and best singer on the show.” The admirer went on to say, “You were the only reason I watched!!! What are these judges not seeing?! I am so confused… Maybe there’s another reason I’m not aware of LOL, since I’m so upset you’re gone. I’m really upset!!!!! BUTTTTT, I know this is not the end of the road for you. “Keep shining that light and God-given gift, kid 🤍 [sic].”
Another admirer mourned, “Jaukeem’s version of ‘Man in the Mirror’ could be released tonight and become a number one hit!” He is one in a million 🙌💯. It’s unfortunate that you took away his opportunity.” Someone else expressed disbelief, saying, “Whaaaattt?” Not Jaukeem? 😮.[sic]” Another fan agreed, writing, “[I am] very disappointed he wasn’t chosen!!!!” One supporter commented, “Hakeem was the reason I watched…will not be watching now that he’s gone 🥲.” [sic]”
Pearce was the Playoff Advisor for Bublé’s club. Bublé also posted an Instagram shot of himself seated next to Pearce on the “The Voice” set. He captioned the post with, “Excited to have my friend @CarlyPearce join me on ‘The Voice’ tonight!” The musician continued, “Fun fact: this is when we had the brilliant notion to record our Christmas song together. Check out the episode and the new song, #MaybeThisChristmas!” In a show footage, Pearce was seen meeting with Bublé’s crew and giving guidance and support.
The singer wasn’t the only one who encouraged the team; Fortson was also extremely supportive of his teammates prior to his elimination. For example, on November 19, 2024, he praised being in Bublé’s top five and promoted his team’s viewing, stating, “I’m really excited! Please watch my wonderful buddies tonight!! ” After being eliminated, he acknowledged his departure from “The Voice” on Instagram.
Fortson elaborated: “I’ve learned so much and met some amazing people who share the same love for music that I do.”He stated that participating in the competition was a significant milestone for him, and he was looking forward to the next phase of his journey. Fortson inspired his fans by saying, “When one door closes, another one opens!”
He thanked them for their support and expressed excitement about what lay ahead. Fortson ended his message by saying he’s well and asking people to share “Positive comments [and] nothing sad 🙃.” Jaukeem Fortson on “The Voice” “The Knockouts Premiere” season 26 on September 9, 2024 | Image: Getty Images The judges praised Fortson’s rendition of “Man in the Mirror” during the playoffs. Despite being only 14, he wowed both the audience and the panel with his vocal ability.
For the playoffs, Vasquez played Roy Orbison’s “Crying,” and Bublé was moved enough to give a standing ovation. Simon, on the other hand, picked a current piece, singing Chappell Roan’s “Good Luck, Babe!” The judges gave her a standing ovation for her performance, but she did not advance to the next round.