CeeLo Green returns to The Voice as mentor, reflects on iconic early seasons

Original The Voice coach CeeLo Green is returning to the show.

(NBC)- Original The Voice coach CeeLo Green is returning to the show, bringing a wave of nostalgia as he steps back into a mentoring role.

Green is joining fellow coaches John Legend and Adam Levine for the knockout rounds, revisiting a show that helped redefine televised singing competitions.

“Every second that I’m here feels like Groundhog’s Day. It feels really rich and nostalgic,” Green said.

He recalled the early days of The Voice, when he worked alongside Levine, Christina Aguilera, and Blake Shelton, describing that original lineup as something special.

“It’s one of those wonders that you can’t truly explain… magic, lightning in a bottle,” Green said.

Green also revealed it was Levine who first encouraged him to join the show.

“He said, ‘If you like it, I like it… if you’ll do it, I’ll do it,’” Green explained.

Now, his focus has shifted to mentoring the remaining contestants, helping guide them through one of the most competitive stages of the show.

“It’s just a village of people trying to make a thing as best as it can possibly be,” he said.

Green emphasized the importance of balancing honesty with encouragement when working with artists chasing their dreams.

“This is people’s hopes and dreams… you don’t want to play with them. It’s a hypersensitive thing,” he said.

Despite the pressure, Green says he’s embracing the experience once again.

“It’s more than a job — it’s an adventure,” he added.