S4C to broadcast Welsh version of The Voice
May 2, 2024
S4C will broadcast a Welsh language version of the hit TV series The Voice, that will be produced by Boom Cymru, part of ITV Studios, and will air in 2025.
Y Llais as it is called in Welsh, will feature international opera singer Sir Bryn Terfel as one of the four Coaches from different musical backgrounds. Terfel has been performing at Opera Houses and concert stages across the world for the last three decades.
S4C’s Welsh language version, which will be 8 x 90-minutes, is the 75th adaptation of the original format of The Voice. The series will see contestants take part in blind auditions as the nation’s best vocalists try to impress four of Wales’ top recording artists. Hopefuls looking for a shot at stardom will take to the stage in a bid to be crowned this series’ winner, securing a 12 month mentoring scheme and opportunities to perform on S4C programmes.
The series will be available to watch on S4C, S4C Clic and BBC iPlayer. Y Llais will be presented by BBC Radio 1 presenter Sian Eleri, who commented: ““I’m delighted to be presenting one of the biggest shows in the world that is dedicated to finding and championing new, emerging talent. For it to be happening on home soil with S4C is next level! Bring on those rotating chairs.’
Terfel said: “It’s great that the Land of Song is getting its own special version of the The Voice series – what better way to discover the next big star? This is the perfect opportunity to make your dream come true, to perform on S4C, and to be part of the most exciting series on television.”
Geraint Evans, S4C’s Interim Chief Content Officer, said: “We are thrilled to be developing a Welsh language version of such an incredibly successful international brand. As we aim to attract a wider and more diverse audience, Y Llais will be a fantastic spectacle which will generate widespread interest and appeal. It will be a pleasure to have opera star Sir Bryn Terfel sitting in one of the famous red chairs. As a nation we have produced some of the most successful singers in the world, and with this format we’re looking forward to discovering the next big voice from Wales.”
Nia Thomas, Boom Cymru Managing Director, added: “The Voice is an iconic global vocal competition, and the perfect platform to discover a magical voice from Wales. It’s a privilege to be working with Sir Bryn Terfel, and to be creating the 75th adaptation of this incredibly popular format for S4C. We encourage every aspiring singer here in Wales to apply for Y Llais so that we can shine a light on their talent and help them achieve their dreams.”