Annie Lennox - Why Did Annie Lennox Turn Down 'The Voice'?

The show follows a similar format to popular Itv show, The X Factor or American Idol, but, as the name suggests, is only concerned with it's contestants singing talents, rather than their physical appearance. It's a unique selling point, and seemingly provided a successful platform in its first series, but viewing figures soon dropped, and a planned tour featuring the show's contestants has since been scrapped. This high profile snub will be embarrassing for the TV giants. Lennox, fresh from performing at the London 2012 Olympics closing ceremony, was earmarked as a replacement for the ex-voice coach and judge Tom Jones. The Welsh legend had previously stated his intent to return to the show, on the proviso that he had a say on the appointment of judges. Lulu is being touted as a possible alternative, but who's to say that she'll accept the role, considering the Bbc's latest failure to attract big name talent to its flagship talent show.

Annie would have been a coup, especially considering her festive album A Christmas Cornucopia - released in 2010 - sold more than 80 million copies. She has also accumulated 8 Brit Awards in a 30-year career. The singer was never likely to get involved in a show of this nature, as a source close to Annie explained to The Mirror: "Annie has been vocal in the past about her distaste for talent shows so it would have been somewhat hypocritical to take part." The Voice is due to return with a second series in early 2013, and everyone at the show will be hoping to keep hold of current stars Jessie J, Danny O'Donoghue and Will.I.AM will stay on board.