If you’ve spent any time on social media lately, you’ve probably seen the headlines. One day Blake Shelton and Gwen Stefani are allegedly filing for divorce, and the next, they’re kissing on a stage in Oklahoma. It’s exhausting. Honestly, even Blake seems a little fed up with the internet’s obsession with his marriage.
While the tabloids were busy "splitting them up" for the hundredth time, the 49-year-old country star was actually busy breaking records. As of January 2026, the big news Blake Shelton fans are buzzing about isn't a breakup—it’s a massive career milestone and a rowdy return to the Las Vegas Strip.
The Truth About the Blake and Gwen "Split"
Let's clear the air. On January 11, 2026, Blake finally addressed those persistent rumors while co-hosting Country Countdown USA. He didn't hold back. He joked about seeing AI-generated photos of himself wearing shirts he doesn't own, standing next to cars he’s never driven, all to support a narrative that his marriage is on the rocks.
"I started noticing these articles popping up about 'Blake and Gwen, they're split up,'" he told the audience. He pointed out the absurdity of the cycle: if they aren't seen at a grocery store for a week, they’re divorcing. If a photo surfaces of them buying milk, they’ve "reconciled."
The reality? They rang in 2026 together with a very public, very real New Year's Eve kiss on Gwen’s Instagram.
Sure, 2025 was a "disconnected" year for them, but not because of drama. It was because of work. Gwen was gearing up for her own No Doubt reunion and Sphere residency, while Blake was filming The Road for CBS. They’ve reportedly made a "resolution" this year to prioritize more time in the same zip code. Blake even promised to attend church with Gwen more often. It’s a normal marriage facing the weird pressure of being a multi-million dollar power couple.
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31 and Counting: A Historic Chart Run
While people were gossiping, Blake was clinching his 31st No. 1 single. "Stay Country or Die Tryin'" hit the top of the charts just this week, in mid-January 2026. This isn't just another trophy for the wall. This officially puts him in second place for the most No. 1 songs in country radio history, trailing only Kenny Chesney.
It’s the second hit from his latest album, For Recreational Use Only, which dropped last year.
Most people thought when Blake left The Voice after 23 seasons, he was heading for the tractor and the porch. Instead, he’s working harder than ever. The new album features some heavy hitters, including tracks with John Anderson and Craig Morgan. It’s a grittier, more traditional sound than some of his mid-2010s pop-country stuff.
Vegas Residency: "Questionable Decisions" at Caesars
On Thursday, January 15, 2026, Blake kicked off his latest residency at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace. If you were hoping for a refined, sober evening of acoustic ballads, you’re looking at the wrong guy.
Shelton basically told the crowd to forget about "Dry January." He actually called the trend "stupid" during his opening night set.
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"Take the night off if you are," he told the rowdy crowd while holding up a cup that definitely didn't look like water. The show is titled Blake Shelton: Live in Las Vegas, and it’s an 8-performance run through the end of January.
What the Setlist Looks Like Now
- The Opener: "Pour Me a Drink" (his CMA-winning collab with Post Malone).
- The Classics: "Austin," "Honey Bee," and "Some Beach."
- The New Stuff: "Texas" and the current No. 1 "Stay Country or Die Tryin'."
- The Closer: "God Gave Me You."
The vibe is less "high-end Vegas production" and more "world's most expensive honky-tonk." He’s leaning into his Oklahoma roots, which seems to be exactly what fans want right now.
Why He’s Not Returning to The Voice (Yet)
Despite the constant "Bring Back Blake" petitions on Reddit and Twitter, don't expect to see him in a red chair for Season 29.
NBC recently announced a "Battle of Champions" lineup featuring Kelly Clarkson, Adam Levine, and John Legend. While it’s a nostalgic trio, the "King" of the show is staying away for now. He’s busy co-producing The Road with Taylor Sheridan. That show is a different beast entirely—it follows aspiring artists on a grueling tour as opening acts for Keith Urban.
Blake’s "retirement" looks a lot like a 60-hour work week. Between the new TV production, the Vegas residency, and his growing Ole Red restaurant empire, he’s everywhere but the judge's panel.
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What’s Next for the Cowboy?
If you're looking for news Blake Shelton fans can actually use to plan their year, look toward the summer. He’s already been confirmed as a headliner for the 2026 Carolina Country Music Fest in Myrtle Beach this June.
He’s also expanding the Ole Red brand further. The newest Las Vegas location with its rooftop stage is currently one of the hottest spots on the Strip.
Actionable Insights for Fans:
- Vegas Tickets: If you want to catch the residency, there are still limited tickets for the remaining dates (January 18, 21, 23, 24, 28, 30, and 31). Use Ticketmaster but check for "Platinum" pricing spikes before you buy.
- New Music: Check out the "Stay Country or Die Tryin'" music video if you haven't seen it. It’s a lot more cinematic than his previous videos, reflecting that Taylor Sheridan influence.
- Ignore the Rumors: If the news doesn't come directly from a verified source or a grocery store photo with a clear date, it’s likely clickbait. The couple is currently prioritizing their "intentional reset" for 2026.
Blake Shelton is at a weird, fascinating crossroads in his career. He’s no longer the "TV guy" who happens to sing. He’s reclaimed his spot as a country music titan who happens to own the weekend in Las Vegas.