Melanie C has joined 'The Voice Kids' as a judge.

Melanie C

Melanie C

The Spice Girl - who is known as Sporty Spice in the 'Wannabe' group - has replaced Paloma Faith on the children's spin-off series of the ITV talent competition, as the 'Only Love Can Hurt Like This' hitmaker has decided to step down ahead of the arrival of her second child.

The 47-year-old singer is set to join returning judges Danny Jones, will.i.am and Pixie Lott in the spinning red chairs, while Emma Willis will return as the host.

And 'Who I Am' singer Melanie has vowed to "Spice things up".

She said: "I’ve always been a huge fan of 'The Voice' so I am super excited to be a coach on 'The Voice Kids' this year. I can’t wait to get in one of those big red chairs and Spice things up!"

McFly star Danny, 34, commented: "I'm chuffed to have Melanie C joining the gang.

Every year when I think the talent can't be topped I find myself blown away by the new up and coming kids. I'm looking forward to discovering some brand new little superstars, it's also a mission of mine to catch up with Pixie’s winning streak."

While Spice Girls mega-fan Pixie, 30, said: "I am the biggest Spice Girls fan, they were the first concert I ever went to, so it's such a thrill to have Melanie C joining the show too, upping the level of girl power even more!"

And Black Eyed Peas star will.i.am, 45, added: "A big welcome to Melanie C this year, also known as Sporty Spice. What do you think of the nickname Coach Spice?"

The new series will hit screens later this year and will once again see the judges choose singers aged between seven and 14 to be on their team and be in with the chance of being crowned the winner of the contest.

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