In a heartfelt announcement that has surprised WWE fans around the world, Lilian Garcia has officially confirmed that her full-time run as WWE SmackDown’s ring announcer has come to an end. The beloved veteran, known for her iconic voice and long-standing presence in WWE, shared the news on her Instagram after wrapping up SmackDown in Barcelona, Spain — her final show in a full-time capacity.
Lilian Garcia Thanks WWE Fans & Confirms New Role
Garcia, who returned to WWE in October 2024 to replace Samantha Irvin on RAW, later moved to SmackDown in January 2025 after a brand switch with Alicia Taylor. After only a few months back in the role, Garcia has decided to step away from regular weekly TV appearances.
In her emotional Instagram post, Lilian expressed her gratitude to WWE fans and the company, calling WWE her forever home. While this is the end of her weekly SmackDown duties, Garcia will remain involved with WWE in other capacities, including as the official announcer for Saturday Night’s Main Event shows on NBC and Peacock, and for special live events.
Here’s part of what she wrote:
“Just finished announcing SmackDown in Barcelona, Spain and it was absolutely incredible!! Gracias por todo el amor España! But now I have some news that this was my last show as the full-time SmackDown announcer. A new era is upon us BUT I will still be with the company as I will be announcing for all @wwe Saturday Night’s Main Event shows on @nbc & @peacock, singing at certain special events, AND currently working on other show ideas with WWE! WWE is my home so stay tuned as a new chapter begins… I invite all of you to continue this journey with me as we share it together!! Bottom line, thank you and I love you dearly!!!!”
Lilian Garcia’s Incredible WWE Journey
Lilian Garcia is a legendary figure in WWE history, having been part of the company for two decades on and off. She first joined WWE in 1999, serving as the lead ring announcer for RAW and later SmackDown, and has been part of some of the most iconic moments in WWE’s history, including WrestleMania and major pay-per-view events.
Known for her powerful singing voice, Garcia has also performed the National Anthem at countless WWE events, making her a fan favorite both inside and outside the ring.
Her return in 2024 was celebrated by many longtime WWE fans, and while her full-time run is now over, her legacy in WWE remains strong.
What’s Next for WWE SmackDown Ring Announcer Role?
With Lilian Garcia stepping back, WWE will now need to fill the SmackDown ring announcer position.
Possible candidates include:
- Alicia Taylor, who previously switched brands with Lilian and may return to SmackDown.
- Mike Rome, who has experience on both RAW and SmackDown.
- New or rising announcers from NXT looking to step into the spotlight.
As WWE continues to evolve under Triple H’s creative direction, introducing a fresh face or rotating announcers could also be on the table.
Garcia to Continue Special Appearances and Projects
Although Garcia is stepping back from weekly TV, she isn’t done with WWE. Fans can expect to see her:
- Announcing Saturday Night’s Main Event on NBC & Peacock.
- Singing at special WWE events.
- Involved in other upcoming projects with WWE.
This ensures that fans won’t have to say goodbye to Lilian completely, and her voice will still be heard at key moments throughout the year.
Lilian Garcia’s departure from full-time announcing is the end of an era for WWE SmackDown, but it’s also the beginning of a new chapter — both for her and for WWE. Fans will surely miss hearing her voice every week but can look forward to seeing her on special occasions.
As Lilian continues to work on new projects with WWE, her contributions to the company remain invaluable.
FAQs
Is Lilian Garcia leaving WWE completely?
No, Lilian Garcia is not leaving WWE completely. She is stepping down as SmackDown’s full-time announcer but will continue to work on Saturday Night’s Main Event shows, special events, and other projects with WWE.
Who will replace Lilian Garcia as SmackDown’s ring announcer?
WWE has not officially announced a replacement yet, but possible options include Alicia Taylor, Mike Rome, or a rising announcer from NXT.
Why did Lilian Garcia leave her full-time role as SmackDown announcer?
Lilian Garcia hasn’t provided a specific reason but mentioned that a new chapter is beginning for her in WWE. She expressed gratitude to fans and the company while announcing she will continue in special roles.
Will Lilian Garcia still sing at WWE events?
Yes, Lilian Garcia confirmed she will continue singing at certain special WWE events, along with her new role as announcer for Saturday Night’s Main Event.
When was Lilian Garcia’s last SmackDown show as a full-time announcer?
Lilian Garcia’s last SmackDown as a full-time announcer took place in Barcelona, Spain, during the special international edition of WWE SmackDown.
