CHERYL steps out of a car and back into prime-time TV tonight for the first time in six years.
The ex-Girls Aloud singer, 43, joins UK coach and big pal in the show’s Battle Rounds.
We revealed in August how Geordie had landed a big-money deal to appear on the talent show. But her grand entrance, in the current series, comes far earlier than expected.
The smiling star waves as she exits the blacked-out car to gasps from the contenders.
Cheryl says: “I’ve stood in the shoes that the contestants are standing in. I know what it feels like to perform in this environment. You’ve just got to know that you’re good or you wouldn’t be here.”
She adds: “I’m so excited for you all. You couldn’t be in better hands than you are with Will.”
Praising the Black Eyed Peas star, 51, she says: “Will and I have collaborated a lot over the years so we know what it’s like for two very different artists to come together.”
Cheryl was last seen on TV screens in 2019-20’s on BBC1.
She was also a judge on from 2008 to 2011, and again in 2014-15.
In tonight’s The Voice she helps Will pick three contestants heading to the semi-finals. Her top-secret cameo was filmed last year before she signed up to be a fully-fledged coach in 2027’s series.
Filming for that kicked off in Manchester last month.
The Sun revealed how alongside singer Kelly Rowland, 45, rapper Aitch, 26, and show stalwart Will.i.am.
She and Aitch replaced judges and duo and , who shared a single seat.
A source said: “Every year producers ask Cheryl to go on the show, and it’s a polite ‘No’ as the timing has never quite been right.
“This year it’s different. She feels ready to re-enter the spotlight and talks are now in the final stages.
“It helps that long-term friend Will.i.am will be beside her on the panel.” The Voice UK continues on ITV at 8.35pm.
