‘Road To Live Shows’ proves 'The Voice' is the most joyful show on TV

Monday night’s episode of The Voice (Mondays at 8 pET on CTV2) may not have included new performances or big name surprise mentors, but the annual recap special did achieve one major goal by confirming what viewers who have tuned in each week during Season 18 already know—this is the most joyful show on the small screen.This week’s episode marked the annual recap show that airs during each season, highlighting the final 20 contestants and their famous coaches, including Kelly Clarkson, Blake Shelton, John Legend and Nick Jonas. In addition to the four contestants on each team, the additional four who are currently awaiting their fate in the first-ever four-way knockout round were also featured, giving singers Michael C. Hall, Nelson Cade III, Samantha Howell, and Michael Williams another chance to shine on national television. It was a fitting inclusion to showcase the four Knockout singers, staying on-brand for a show that has focused on bringing positivity and joy to its audience. After 18 seasons, The Voice has not only gotten better with age, it may even be at its all-time best.The undeniable chemistry of the current dais has infused new life into the long-running reality show, with new coach Nick Jonas acting as the final piece of the big red chair-puzzle. Jonas, Clarkson, Legend, and Shelton all continue to enjoy successful careers, putting each musician on an even playing field that makes for healthy competition when fighting over contestants. The mutual respect and chemistry also keeps the teasing between performances good-natured and fun to watch.The ease with which Season 18 has played out on screen appears to have had a positive effect on the coaches, too. Even the pre-taped segments are funny. That rarely happens on any reality show. Blake Shelton dancing to “Hollaback Girl” is an image we all need in 2020. Monday night’s recap episode not only highlighted the remaining contestants, but it also acted as a reminder that this season has been so stacked with talent that a clear frontrunner has yet to emerge. If everyone is talented, then being sent home doesn’t mean a singer failed, but instead is a reminder that they competed against the best because they too are one of the best.The producers of The Voice have yet to announce how the Live Shows will take place next Monday. With production shut down on all TV shows, it’s likely that the singing show will follow in American Idol’s footsteps and film the upcoming performances from the contestant’s homes.Not matter how the episodes play out, one thing's for sure—we'll be watching.Watch The Voice every Monday at 8 pET on CTV2.