He’s a global superstar who has sold more than 60 million albums worldwide but when Ricky Martin was announced as Keith Urban’s replacement on The Voice we have to admit we were sceptical.
Surely no one could replace our Keith? One week into season two of the hit singing show, we’re relieved to see Ricky is more than capable of filling Keith’s big shoes.
In a few short days, Ricky has eclipsed audience favourite Joel Madden and even Seal to become the show’s most popular judge.
These pictures trace his 30 years in the spotlight.
Ricky in the 1980s, 1990s and now.
A young Ricky onstage in the 1980s. He began singing at age six.
Ricky in Peurto Rico the 1980s.
Ricky and his mum opening fan mail in the 1980s.
Ricky was writing his own songs by the time he was 11.
Showing off some seriously bouffant hair.
Ricky and his mum Nereida, who was an accountant.
Ricky (far left) with the rest of boy band Menudo in 1986.
Ricky onstage in the 1980s. The young star was also in TV commercials.
Ricky in the 1980s. He was unhappy in Menudo, and exhausted from its busy touring schedule.
Ricky was rejected from Menudo twice because he was too shot.
Ricky on tour with Puerto Rican boyband Menudo.
Ricky circa 1980. He was Menudo’s biggest heartthrob.
Looking like Fabio in 1994.
Ricky with his pet dog in 1999. The star is a big dog lover.
Ricky pouting in 1999.
Ricky showing off his best angle in 1999.
Ricky on stage in 1999. He had sold more than 60 million albums.
Ricky at the Radio Music Awards in 2000.
Ricky in 2000, shortly after the success of ‘Livin’ la Vida Loca’.
Ricky at Elton John’s annual AIDS Ball in 2002.
Ricky in the Netherlands in 2003.
Ricky performing at the 2005 Radio Music Awards.
Ricky showing off his twin boys on Twitter in 2009.
Ricky came out as gay on his website in 2010.
Ricky at Milan Fashion Week in February 2011.
Ricky in February 2012.
Ricky on *The Voice*.
Ricky on The Voice.
