All eyes were on Blake Shelton and Gwen Stefani at the 2025 American Music Awards, but not for the reasons fans expected. When Shelton took the stage to introduce Stefani’s performance, viewers couldn’t help but notice his unusually stiff demeanor. Stefani, radiant in a bold, high-fashion ensemble, seemed unfazed as she delivered a powerhouse performance — yet the contrast between the couple’s energy left fans buzzing on social media. Here’s what a body language expert said about Shelton’s appearance as he introduced his famous wife.

A celebrity body language expert analyzed Blake Shelton as he introduced Gwen Stefani

Blake Shelton was likely excited to introduce his wife, Gwen Stefani, during the 2025 American Music Awards. During his speech, he stated he “really loved” Stefani as she celebrated the 20th anniversary of her first AMA win. “Let’s hear it for my one and only, the one and only, Gwen Stefani!” Shelton exclaimed while pointing to the stage.

Celebrity body language expert Inbaal Honigman spoke to Casino.org/us about Shelton’s mannerisms during this important moment.

“Shelton is nervous when he introduces his one and only,” Honigman noted. “Throughout the segment, he grips his microphone tightly, which suggests tension. 

“Initially, when he mentions the ‘Hollaback’ flashback, Shelton does a little bow, lowering his head and leaning forward in a submissive move,” she continued. “He’s showing his deference.”

“His left hand, which is not holding the microphone, is doing something interesting,” Honigman said. “The thumb and forefinger are squeezed together, which might be a soothing gesture for the country singer. By pressing two digits together, he’s kind of holding hands with himself and calming his nerves.”

Honigman noted that “Shelton points powerfully toward the stage” when introducing Stefani. “This is to direct attention to the performance, but it is no subtle pointing,” she added. “He throws his entire might and weight into this move, demanding, not asking that everyone look at his wife. There’s an element of pride in the gesture. He’s not just proud of his wife, but also of himself for being with her.”

Is the couple’s marriage in jeopardy?

Given Blake Shelton’s awkward body language while introducing Gwen Stefani at the American Music Awards, it something going on with the couple behind the scenes? Thankfully, Shelton and Stefani seem happier than ever. Shelton recently revealed his secrets to a happy marriage after spending 10 years with Stefani.

While speaking to People, Shelton admitted that his relationship “still feels new” to him. “I feel like that might be the key to happiness, is that it feels just as exciting and new and happy,” he added.

The country crooner opened up about their lax summer plans.

“I’m looking forward to the kids being out of school,” he said. “Gwen and I pretty much have our summers wide open. We both have a few shows here and there, but nothing that’s tying us down to keep us from going and doing something fun. We don’t have any plans — which is our favorite plan.”

Fans are furious over Blake Shelton and Gwen Stefani’s pre-recorded performances

Fans watching the American Music Awards were excited to see Blake Shelton and Gwen Stefani take the stage for their performances. Unfortunately, viewers feel duped. Shelton and Stefani’s performances were pre-recorded, meaning the two stars didn’t perform live.

A few fans on Reddit pointed out that rumors suggest many of the A-listers didn’t attend the event. Instead, the audience mainly consisted of influencers.

“I don’t know if it’s true, but I have read that most of the celebs were not there and mostly influencers and TikTokers were there,” a fan commented. “If true, yikes.”

“I’m so confused why the AMAs have gone so downhill,” another fan wrote. “I thought the comeback meant they fixed things, so I’m really confused by the lack of stars. It was also a holiday weekend, so I wonder if that factored in.”

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