NBC’s “The Voice” has hit an unexpected sour note this awards season. For the first time in more than a decade, the hit singing competition was left out of the Emmy nominations for Outstanding Reality Competition Program—a category it’s been a staple in since 2012.
Since its second season, “The Voice” has consistently earned recognition from the Television Academy, with major wins in 2013, 2015, 2016, and 2017. But in 2025, it finds itself on the sidelines as new and returning shows dominate the category.
Emmy Nominees: Outstanding Reality Competition Program
This year’s nominees for Outstanding Reality Competition Program are: “The Traitors” (Peacock), “RuPaul’s Drag Race” (MTV), “The Amazing Race” (CBS), “Survivor” (CBS), and “Top Chef” (Bravo).
Among the biggest surprises is the return of “Survivor”, which missed out last year. Its nomination marks only the second time since 2006 that the long-running CBS series has appeared in the category, signaling a renewed interest from Emmy voters.
Also holding strong is Peacock’s “The Traitors”, which took home the Emmy in 2024 for its second season. That win marked the show’s first major Emmy victory and included a trophy for host Alan Cumming, who won for Outstanding Host for a Reality or Reality Competition Program.
“RuPaul’s Drag Race” continues its reign as an awards powerhouse. After dominating the category from 2018 to 2021 with four straight wins, the series briefly lost out to “Lizzo’s Watch Out for the Big Grrrls” in 2022. It came roaring back to win again in 2023 and is once again a nominee this year.
“The Amazing Race” and “Top Chef”, two longtime Emmy favorites, round out the category and maintain their strong presence in the reality competition field.
The Future of “The Voice”
As for “The Voice”, the show had submitted its 27th season for consideration. That season featured Michael Bublé, John Legend, Adam Levine, and Kelsea Ballerini as coaches. Looking ahead, Season 28 will launch this fall with an all-star coaching panel including Bublé, Reba McEntire, Snoop Dogg, and Niall Horan.
While “The Voice” remains a ratings juggernaut and fan favorite, its absence from the nominations may reflect the Television Academy’s shifting tastes and a growing appreciation for newer, edgier formats in the genre.
Whether “The Voice” can reclaim its Emmy spot next year is anyone’s guess—but for now, it’s the end of an era for one of NBC’s most decorated reality hits.
