Nicole Scherzinger, a long-time panelist on the popular singing competition show “The Masked Singer,” will not be returning for its 11th season in 2024. The news, announced by Fox in a press release and on the show’s social media, confirmed that Scherzinger’s departure is due to her commitment to a London West End production. Singer Rita Ora, already a familiar face in the “Masked Singer” franchise, will be filling in for Scherzinger.
Rita Ora on The Masked Singer.
Rita Ora Steps In: What to Expect in Season 11
Rita Ora will join fellow panelists Ken Jeong, Jenny McCarthy Wahlberg, and Robin Thicke for Season 11. While Season 10, premiering September 27th, 2023, will still feature Scherzinger, Ora’s debut is slated for next year. This isn’t Ora’s first foray into the world of masked singers. She’s been a panelist on “The Masked Singer UK” since its inception in 2020, boasting four seasons under her belt. Her experience also extends to other reality TV shows, including “The Voice Australia” and “The X Factor UK.”
Scherzinger’s West End Commitment: The Reason Behind Her Exit
Scherzinger’s absence stems from her leading role in Andrew Lloyd Webber’s “Sunset Boulevard” production in London, a commitment announced earlier this year. This scheduling conflict prevents her from participating in the entirety of “The Masked Singer” Season 11.
A Look Back and a Glimpse Ahead: Season 10 Highlights and Ora’s Teaser
While Season 11 marks Scherzinger’s first full-season absence, the show has seen guest panelists and temporary host changes before. Season 10 kicked off with a special episode featuring Anonymous, later revealed to be Demi Lovato, performing Heart’s “What About Love?”. The season also includes returning contestants and promises new masked celebrities like Donut, Hawk, and Anteater. A Season 10 trailer even teased Ora’s appearance, hinting at her potential long-term involvement with the show. She expressed her enjoyment of Hollywood and suggested she “might stick around.” Fans can catch Scherzinger one last time in Season 10 before Ora takes the reins in the following season.
