Although we already knew that Cee Lo Green was sitting out of the spring cycle of The Voice again, many thought he would be back for the fall. However, Green dropped the bombshell today on Ellen that he is leaving the show for good.

“I’m not coming back at all,” Green stated. “I’m going to continue my relationship with NBC. I have a television show development deal with them as well and hopefully some other talk show opportunities for later in the year. But yeah, I’m going to miss The Voice, too.”

NBC reality TV chief Paul Telegdy released a statement shortly after news broke of Green’s departure, “Cee Lo Green has been an instrumental part of the success of The Voice and we deeply appreciate all his contributions. We’re looking forward to working with him on other upcoming projects that will tap into both his musical and entertainment expertise.”

Green marks the first of the original judges that will be leaving permanently. Adam Levine, Blake Shelton, and Christina Aguilera haven’t made any statements about the length of their contracts or on Green’s departure yet.

Who do you think should replace Cee Lo come fall? Sound off!