It’s the controversial TV show finale that has divided the nation.
Following last night’s grand finale on season nine of The Voice, which saw coach Guy Sebastian’s younger brother Chris Sebastian crowned as the 2020 winner of the show, fans have taken to social media to claim the ending was “rigged.”
Team Guy’s Johnny Manuel, Team George’s Siala Robson, Team Delta’s Stellar Perry and Team Kelly’s Chris had faced off in the finale in a last-ditch bid for victory.
The 31-year-old was crowned the winner via a public voting system which, according to Channel Nine, was so close there was only 0.5% between first and second place, and will pocket a $100,000 cash prize and record contract with EMI Music.
But as his win was aired on Sunday evening, the hashtag #Rigged began trending on Twitter.
Throughout the course of the season, the father-of-one was considered a front-runner and many fans were skeptical over his shock win, pointing out his older brother Guy’s close ties with the show.
“Anyone else feeling like the @TheVoiceAU result has some optics issues? Brother a judge, other contestants far more talented and interesting. I cant enter a cooking show because 30+ years ago I qualified as a chef. Not sure it passes the pub sniff test #rigged #TheVoiceAU,” Twitter user Pete Dillon said.
“I stopped watching last week when I found out Chris was in Finals. Foregone conclusion he would win due to his connection,” another disgruntled fan penned.
“Who would have guessed…chris sebastian, guy’s brother … won The Voice… feel sorry for the other 2 that dont have a judge of the show in the family,” a third explained.
“Why Australia? Why are we like this?! What stops us from recognising/rewarding great talent? Winner of #TheVoiceAU should undeniably have been @JohnnyManuel or Siala. Both are incredible artists… unique and in touch with the current industry. Can’t wait to stream their music,” another disappointed Twitter user bemoaned.
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However others were quick to point out there was no way the finale could have been corrupt and Chris was a deserving winner.
“People saying it’s rigged? How? It was based on a public vote. Congrats to Chris! 👍🏻#TheVoiceAU,” @mr_james0077 noted.
“He deserved it, and to all the people saying he only won because of his brother…. get a life he has an amazing voice,” a second said.
“Well done Chris you deserved to win,” a fan agreed.
Meanwhile, Chris has taken to social media to break his silence in the aftermath of his polarising win.
“I don’t know what else to say but thank you. From the bottom of my heart thank you Australia for voting for me, @kellyrowland thankyou for everything ❤️,” Chris penned on Instagram on Sunday evening.
Before thanking his fellow finalists: “Thank you @stellarperry @johnnymanuel @sialaofficial you are my people and I love you. I need to be up with a hungry baby in a few hours so I’m going to sleep now but so much more to come tomorrow,” the new dad to four-month-old daughter Ava added.
On Monday morning, the singer took to his socials again to address his win.
“I have no words, to everyone who voted for me thank you so so much! I love you all. This season of the voice has been one of the greatest things to ever happen to me and this means more to me than anyone knows. ❤️,” an elated Chris said.
Chris’ older brother Guy Sebastian works as a coach on the hit TV show The Voice.
(Image: Getty)Proud brother Guy also gave Chris a shot-out on Instagram.
“What a win by @chrisebastian ! So stoked for you 🎉 legend,” Guy said.
“I’m proud of all these artists for putting themselves out there and throwing everything at this, during a challenging time in the world. The fact that we were able to pull this show off against all odds is such a blessing.”
“What a privilege for all these artists to have a stage to showcase their wonderful gifts, collaborating with the most incredible creative team from @thevoiceau . Big love to all of you who tried out this year, keep kicking goals and live off the positives,” Guy, who rose to fame on the first season of Australian Idol in 2003, concluded.
