Fans of The Masked Singer were left puzzled after ITV announced a last-minute schedule change for Saturday night's episode. The broadcaster took to social media on January 3 to inform viewers that the show would air at 6:40pm instead of the originally advertised 6:30pm.
Viewers expressed confusion and concern, with one asking if there had been a power outage at Television Centre, while another noted extended news coverage at 4pm. Some joked about the change, suggesting a contestant forgot their mask or that the delay would cause them to miss the opening minutes.
An ITV spokesperson later confirmed that the decision to remove Red Panda's performance from the episode was due to potential insensitivities in the song's theme and lyrics, in light of the tragic events in Switzerland. Red Panda's performance will be rescheduled for a future episode.
The show returns for a new series with judge panelists Davina McCall, Jonathan Ross, Maya Jama, and Mo Gilligan. This season introduces a new format with the first two episodes featuring entire musical groups, such as Goldfish with No Trout, and Emperor Penguin with the Antarctic Funkeys. Presenter Joel Dommett praised the change, noting it brings energy to the show.
Other masked characters this season include Moth, Can of Worms, Conkers, Arctic Fox, Toastie, Monkey Business, Yak, Sloth, Gargoyle, Disc Jockey, and Teabag. Last year's winner was West End legend Samantha Barks as Pufferfish.
