Sharp-eyed fans of ITV's The Masked Singer are convinced they have cracked the identity of the mysterious contestant behind the Conkers costume, pinpointing a beloved soap star as the person under the mask.
Online Detectives Point to Soap Veteran
Following two performances and a trail of clever clues, online sleuths have united around the theory that Conkers is none other than Sam Aston, the actor famed for playing Chesney Brown on Coronation Street since 2003. Aston, now 32, joined the iconic soap as a child of just ten years old.
On platforms like Reddit and X, viewers have been piecing together the evidence. One fan stated they recognised the voice after listening on repeat, while another noted his recent appearances on other ITV reality shows, including his victory on Dancing on Ice last year. A third supporter added that Aston has children who would be the perfect age to enjoy the show, fitting with the family-friendly clues.
Deciphering the Clues
The clues presented in Conkers' introductory video package have provided significant fuel for the speculation. In the VT, set in a castle, a book was visible titled ‘Sam’s Tavern Songs for a Knightly Knees-Up’, with the name 'Sam' prominently highlighted.
Furthermore, Conkers was shown holding a painting of Abz from the band Five, and described themselves as "no stranger to secrets, scandals and shock reveals"—a line that perfectly aligns with life on the dramatic cobbles of Weatherfield. The character also remarked, "This Conker has played many parts but I’m not looking for credit," which fans believe nods to Aston's long-running role and other acting work.
The judges' panel, including guest Freddie Flintoff, have offered their own interpretations. Flintoff suggested the 'Knees-Up' clue hinted at a stint on Strictly Come Dancing or a similar show, which matches Aston's Dancing on Ice win. Jonathan Ross thought the 'many parts' line indicated someone who has guest-starred widely. Before his Corrie fame, Sam Aston appeared in The Bill and Where The Heart Is, and even played Horrid Henry in a TV special.
So far, the official panel guesses for Conkers have included Olympian Tom Daley, reality star Sam Thompson, presenter Bradley Walsh, and swimmer Adam Peaty.
Shocking Unmasking of Gargoyle
The speculation comes hot on the heels of a major reveal in the previous episode, which left both judges and the audience stunned. After landing in the bottom two alongside Sloth, Gargoyle was eliminated following a sing-off.
The judges' final guesses for Gargoyle—which included Fiona Bruce, Ruby Wax, and even Joan Jett herself—were all proven spectacularly wrong. The mask was removed to reveal 90s pop legend Marcella Detroit, one half of the iconic duo Shakespears Sister.
Viewers expressed their shock on social media, with many praising her incredible voice and admitting they should have recognised it. Marcella explained that taking part was a perfect opportunity to return to the UK with her British husband after decades in the US.
Other celebrities unmasked earlier in the series include The One Show's Alex Jones as Disc Jockey, rapper Professor Green as Teabag, and singer John Lydon as Yak.
As always, the true identity of Conkers will remain a secret until they are eliminated and unmasked on the popular Saturday night show. The Masked Singer airs on ITV1 and is available to stream on ITVX.
