Emma Willis says Olly Murs has been “a breath of fresh air” on The Voice UK 2018

Emma Willis has praised her new The Voice UK co-star Olly Murs, saying he’s been “a breath of fresh air” on the show.

Olly joined the coaching line-up on the ITV talent contest for its latest series, replacing Gavin Rossdale.

The former X Factor finalist has impressed presenter Emma, who thinks he was exactly the right personality to fill the empty spinning chair.

Speaking to The Sun’s Fabulous magazine, she said: “He’s got such a good attitude and he’s always so hyper. He’s just lifted it a bit more I think.

“I’d say this series has probably been our best yet because I think they’ve really got the line-up right.

“That’s not to say people who’ve done it before weren’t right, but just this exact mix seems to really work.”

This weekend’s episode saw the Battle Rounds begin, as the coaches began whittling down their picks from the Blind Auditions.

So far, Olly has saved Holly Ellison over Chris James, and stolen Kade Smith from rival Will.i.am’s team.

However, it seems those involved now acknowledge The Voice isn’t a path to stardom, with none of the contestants from past series having achieved any lasting success.

“I just don’t think it’s that type of show,” Emma said. “It’s a platform for talent, and then they have to go and work really bloody hard afterwards.”

Referring to last year’s runners-up Into The Ark, she added: “The boys from last year are touring all the time, doing gigs, supporting Tom Jones on tour and releasing new music.

“They wouldn’t be doing this at this level if it wasn’t for being on the show. It’s a stepping stone and a platform, and then they have to run with it and do what they can.”

Last year’s winner, Mo Adeniran, returned to the show this weekend as an advisor to his former coach Jennifer Hudson.

The Voice UK continues on Saturday at 8.30pm on ITV.