An unaired, fire-themed performance from the new series of The Masked Singer has been leaked online, after ITV bosses made a last-minute decision to cut it from the broadcast. The move followed the devastating New Year's Eve fire in Switzerland that claimed 40 lives.
Last-Minute Decision to Cut 'Insensitive' Performance
The seventh series of the popular ITV guessing game returned to screens on Saturday, 3rd January 2026. However, hours before the episode aired, producers removed the debut of the character Red Panda.
According to reports, the mystery celebrity inside the Red Panda costume was due to perform The Trammps' 1976 hit 'Disco Inferno'. The routine reportedly featured dancers in fire-style suits, and the introductory video showed the character in a fire station setting.
In light of the tragic fire at the Le Constellation bar in Switzerland, which killed around 40 people and injured hundreds more on 31st December, ITV deemed the performance inappropriate. A spokesperson confirmed the decision was made 'owing to potential insensitivities within the theme and lyrics of the song'.
Leaked Performance Emerges Online
Despite being scrapped from the main broadcast, the performance has now surfaced online. Reports indicate the segment was briefly available on a catch-up service in Scotland before being shared more widely.
ITV has stressed that the Red Panda character and the celebrity inside are still part of the 2026 series and will return in a future episode. 'Viewers will get to see Red Panda perform in the coming weeks,' a statement assured fans.
The Swiss tragedy, which is under criminal investigation, saw a sudden blaze rip through a packed bar in a Valais ski resort. Owners Jacques and Jessica Moretti are being investigated on suspicion of manslaughter by negligence.
Series Seven Kicks Off with Unmaskings
The launch episode proceeded with other contestants, introducing two band-themed acts: Goldfish, leading 'No Trout', and Emperor Penguin, fronting the 'Antarctic Funkeys'.
The show, hosted by Joel Dommett with judges Jonathan Ross, Davina McCall, Maya Jama, and Mo Gilligan, featured a double elimination. Pop star Anne-Marie was unveiled as Goldfish, while Alex Jones from The One Show was revealed as Disc Jockey.
Host Joel Dommett had previously teased that this season would feature 'the most unmaskings ever', with four stars reportedly set to be revealed across the first two episodes. The show airs on ITV1 and is available on ITVX.
