Iraqi singer Rahma Riad has addressed recent controversy surrounding the credibility of voting and results on The Voice, following the crowning of Syrian contestant Joudy Shaheen as the winner of the current season.
Responding to claims that coaches were aware of the voting outcome before the final episode aired, Riad clarified that the information circulating was inaccurate. She explained that all episodes, including the finale, were pre-recorded, with multiple winning scenarios filmed for each contestant, while the actual winner’s moment was determined and aired based on audience votes.
Riad emphasized that the reactions shown by coaches and contestants were genuine and spontaneous, driven by expectations rather than prior knowledge, noting that this production approach is standard practice across international versions of the show.
She added that logistical and professional commitments make live broadcasting impractical for extended periods, stressing that this does not undermine the integrity of the voting process. Riad urged audiences not to question the credibility of the results, reaffirming that the final decision rests entirely with viewers.
Joudy Shaheen secured the sixth season title after an intense and highly competitive journey, earning widespread praise for her emotional depth and classical vocal performance throughout the competition. Her victory marked a historic moment as she became the first Syrian contestant to win the Arabic edition of the show, with Shaheen describing the season as one of the most challenging due to the high caliber of competing voices.
