Ricky Martin signs on as judge on 'The Voice' Australia

Ricky Martin says he won't be a nasty judge on next year's series of 'The Voice' in Australia because he doesn't believe in 'tough love' and is looking forward to a busy year ahead because he is also developing another TV series and writing a new children's book

The Livin' La Vida Loca singer - who is set to finish his stint performing in Evita on Broadway on January 26 - has signed on to judge the second series of the show but the Grammy winner said he won't be the show's version of Simon Cowell.

The 40-year-old star told the Huffington Post: "I don't believe in tough love. I believe in love, and I believe in being nurturing to new talented men and women."

The father-of-two - who welcomed four-year-old twins Matteo and Valentino via a surrogate mother in 2008 - also has another television series and a new children's book in the works.

Ricky is heavily involved in the development of a new dramedy series tackling social issues with a sense of humour for NBC that he will produce, write and star in. The series is expected to hit screens next year.

He said: "It's about growing. It's a moment in my life where I just need to absorb and be surrounded by amazing actors and musicians and grow as an entertainer. I think this is going to be an amazing year for that."

He also revealed he is writing his second book, inspired by his sons.

He said: "I think it's time to write about things that I've been through with my kids that I'm sure many daddys out there will understand."