CeeLo Green is one of the first judges in NBC's "The Voice." After four seasons with the show, he has confirmed that he is leaving the show.

However, the announcement came while he was a guest on "The Ellen De Generes Show." Apparently, the producers and the network were not aware of his decision yet.

The Wrap quotes 'inside sources' on their report:

"Blindsided by the timing of his announcement, producers are unsure what to do with Green's vacant coaches' seat. Green's decision to quit was a move to avoid being fired by NBC and producer Mark Burnett Productions.

A second individual with knowledge of the situation told The Wrap that NBC wanted to announce Green's departure mutually with the singer but that Green decided he wanted to to do it on "The Ellen DeGeneres Show."

The "F-You" singer's statements on "Ellen" as he was interviewed, courtesy of The Daily Mail: "I'm not coming back at all. I don't want to wear out my welcome there. You know what I'm saying?'

I have so many other things that I want to do. I haven't released an album in four years. I'm almost done with my album.

Contrary to some reports that NBC is angry at him: "I'm going to continue my relationship with NBC."

To support that statement, NBC's alternative and late night programming president, Paul Teledgy issued a statement. Via Daily Mail:

"CeeLo Green has been an instrumental part of the success of 'The Voice' and we deeply appreciate all his contributions. We're looking forward to working with him on other upcoming projects that will tap into both his musical and entertainment expertise."

 Another NBC spokesman told The Wrap: "CeeLo's departure didn't blindside us at all. This was a mutual decision and we're looking forward to working with him in the future on different projects and expect to be in business with him."

Mark Burnett, the show's producer, has not issued any comment on the matter.

CeeLo Green will tour with Lionel Richie. The tour will kick off on May 29 in Vancouver, Canada.

"The Voice" starts taping its sixth season, and Usher will take the place Of CeeLo.