Comedian Matt Lucas has been revealed as the Emperor Penguin on ITV's The Masked Singer, leading the show's first-ever house band, Antarctic Funkeys. The group performed The Who's 'Pinball Wizard' for judges Davina McCall, Jonathan Ross, Maya Jama and Mo Gilligan before the unmasking.
After the audience chanted 'Take it off!', Lucas, best known for Little Britain, was unveiled. He said: 'It was very, very hot in there indeed!' and confirmed he chose the costume because he is a fan of the chocolate biscuit of the same name. He then reprised his performance of the Who classic.
Fans reacted with surprise on social media, with one writing on X: 'Matt Lucas...did not see that one! Well done sir...what a voice!' Another said: 'I’m actually gobsmacked that Matt Lucas was Penguin! Haha. Well done!'
In the same episode, singer Anne-Marie was unmasked as Goldfish, who fronted the No Trout band. After her reveal, she performed her hit '2002'. Some viewers had guessed her identity early, citing her stance and clues such as a mathematical equation that equalled 2002.
The new format introduces two house bands to keep viewers guessing. A source told The Sun: 'The franchise’s first-ever bands are going to blow everyone’s minds – but viewers will be left scratching their heads.' Four unmaskings are expected in the first two episodes, with Goldfish and Emperor Penguin added to the 12-person lineup.
