ITV's hit guessing game The Masked Singer has offered a dazzling first glimpse of its upcoming series, with judge Davina McCall stealing the show by channelling iconic pop diva Cher.
A Dazzling Debut for the New Series
The 58-year-old television personality, who recently married celebrity hairdresser Michael Douglas, looked sensational in behind-the-scenes snaps. She sported a head of voluminous curls reminiscent of Cher's signature style and a racy sequinned mini dress with a plunging neckline.
McCall was joined by fellow panellists Maya Jama, Jonathan Ross, and Mo Gilligan, as well as host Joel Dommett, to unveil the new series format and the bizarre characters celebrities will hide behind this year.
Speaking about the fresh season, Davina said: 'It's amazing. It's got a really good pace to it. It's got a good energy, it feels fresh and it feels new. We've got some new ideas and additions that keep us on our toes!'
New Format and Characters Revealed
A major shake-up for the new series is the introduction of The Masked Singer band. Host Joel Dommett explained that the first two episodes will feature a live band, a first for the show. 'We've never done it before and it just gives it so much energy in the room,' he said. 'Also the lead singer of the band is someone we have to guess.'
Jonathan Ross added that this new element has kept the judging panel 'kept on their toes'.
The eclectic lineup of new characters set to baffle the judges and viewers includes:
- Moth
- Can Of Worms
- Red Panda
- Conkers
- Arctic Fox Toastie
- Monkey Business
- Yak
- Sloth
- Gargoyle
- Disc Jockey
- Teabag
The judges already have their favourites. Maya Jama gushed over Monkey Business, calling its outfit 'chic', while Mo Gilligan praised the cool design of Red Panda, which is a panda in a fireman's outfit.
Christmas Special Fallout and a Blunder
The reveal follows the show's recent Christmas special, which saw Dermot O'Leary crowned the winner after being unmasked as Mistletoe. His former Big Brother colleague Davina McCall was reportedly left stunned by the revelation.
However, the festive recording was not without drama. Host Joel Dommett accidentally blurted out O'Leary's identity after recognising his distinctive laugh, sending the studio into chaos. 'I can't believe I did it,' Dommett admitted. 'Thankfully, they had pretty much guessed who it was. But producers did reiterate to me that I wasn't to do that again. I was on the naughty step.'
The Masked Singer returns for its new series on Saturday 3rd and Sunday 4th January at 6.30pm on ITV1, ITVX, STV and STV Player.
