The latest series of ITV's The Masked Singer UK has kicked off with a fresh wave of mystery, and one costume in particular has set social media alight with speculation. Yak made its debut on Sunday night's episode, and within moments, a strong fan theory had emerged pointing directly at broadcaster and former MP Gyles Brandreth.
Yak's Debut Performance and Clues
As the seventh series launched on Sunday 4th January, Yak became the latest mystery celebrity to take the stage. Following a set of cryptic clues, the performer delivered a rendition of Tom Jones's classic hit, 'Sex Bomb'. The judging panel, consisting of Davina McCall, Jonathan Ross, Maya Jama, and Mo Gilligan, were left scratching their heads with a variety of guesses.
Davina McCall suggested Busted star Matt Willis, while Jonathan Ross pondered whether it was actor Adrian Edmondson. Maya Jama guessed it might be DJ Fatboy Slim, and Mo Gilligan leaned towards comedian Leigh Francis, known for his Bo' Selecta! character.
Viewers Convinced It's This Morning Star
However, viewers at home quickly formed a different consensus. Many took to social media platform X to declare they had recognised the distinctive voice and cadence of Gyles Brandreth, the well-known wordsmith and regular contributor to ITV's This Morning.
One fan wrote, "Yak - possibly Gyles Brandreth??? Literally random guess lol." Another stated simply, "Yak sounds like Gyles Brandreth," while a third commented on the humorous performance, asking, "Is it Gyles Brandreth?" An alternative theory proposed by some was that the performer could be Benidorm star Steve Pemberton.
First Unmasking of the Series
The opening episode also saw the first celebrity of the series revealed. After performing Chappell Roan's 'Pink Pony Club', the character Disc Jockey was unmasked as Alex Jones, presenter of The One Show.
The judges' guesses, which included Annie Mac, Jill Scott, Mary Berry, Sara Cox, and Bonnie Tyler, were all wide of the mark. An emotional Alex, 48, dedicated her performance to her three children, Teddy, Kit, and Annie, stating she wanted to show them "overcoming fear is a good thing."
In another twist, guest judge Anne-Marie was revealed to have been the voice inside the Goldfish costume, which was part of a group performance called 'No Trout' – a first for the show.
The competition continues with a host of other mysterious characters, including Gargoyle, Red Panda, Can of Worms, Moth, and Sloth. The next episode, airing on Sunday 4th January at 6.30pm on ITV1 and ITVX, will feature the first performances from Monkey Business, Teabag, Toastie, Arctic Fox, and Conkers, alongside Yak.
