The Masked Singer fans might be wondering why a familiar face is missing from the judges’ panel in Season 13. For the upcoming season, premiering soon, it has been confirmed that Rita Ora will be stepping in once again for Nicole Scherzinger. This marks the third season where Rita has taken Nicole’s place, leaving many to question Nicole’s absence. Let’s delve into the reasons behind Nicole Scherzinger’s absence from The Masked Singer Season 13 and what it means for her future with the show.
Nicole Scherzinger’s Absence Explained: A Clash of Schedules
While some fans may speculate about behind-the-scenes drama, the reality is quite straightforward: Nicole Scherzinger’s absence from The Masked Singer Season 13 is due to scheduling conflicts with her thriving career in musical theatre and television. Nicole is currently starring in a highly anticipated revival of Sunset Boulevard in London’s West End. Previews for the show began in late September, with the official opening night in October. This demanding role requires her presence in London, making it impossible to commit to filming The Masked Singer Season 13, which commences filming on October 22nd and continues through November.
Adding to her busy schedule, Nicole is also involved in a new Netflix reality series, Building the Band. These significant projects demonstrate Nicole’s continued success and diverse talents, but they unfortunately create a scheduling overlap with The Masked Singer. It’s important to note that Nicole’s departure is not due to being fired or any negative circumstances with the show. Instead, it’s a matter of professional commitments and prioritizing her acting career.
Rita Ora Returns: A Welcomed Replacement on The Masked Singer Panel
With Nicole unavailable, Rita Ora has once again been called upon to fill the judge’s seat. Rita is no stranger to The Masked Singer franchise. She has been a panelist on The Masked Singer UK since 2020 and has proven to be a popular and insightful judge. American audiences have also warmed to Rita, as she previously replaced Nicole in Seasons 11 and 12 of the US version. Rita brings her own brand of energy, sharp guesses, and engaging personality to the panel, making her a fantastic replacement.
While some fans may miss Nicole’s presence, Rita has been widely praised for seamlessly stepping into the role. Her experience with the show’s format and her chemistry with the other panelists, Robin Thicke, Jenny McCarthy-Wahlberg, and Ken Jeong, ensure a smooth and entertaining viewing experience for audiences.
Will Nicole Scherzinger Ever Return to The Masked Singer?
The door seems to be open for Nicole Scherzinger to return to The Masked Singer in future seasons. The show has not indicated any permanent replacement, and the narrative suggests that Nicole stepped away due to her prior commitments, not due to any dismissal. Her history as an original panelist and her significant contribution to the show’s success are undeniable. Fans fondly remember her insightful guesses, earning her the nickname “Sherlock Scherzy,” and her captivating on-stage performances.
For now, The Masked Singer is in capable hands with Rita Ora. She is providing valuable entertainment and expertise to the panel. However, the possibility of Nicole Scherzinger’s return remains an exciting prospect for fans who cherish her presence on the show. As The Masked Singer continues to evolve, the dynamic between panelists is a key ingredient to its success, and the potential return of Nicole would undoubtedly be welcomed by many viewers.
The Masked Singer Season 13 airs Wednesdays at 8 PM EDT on FOX.
Source: On Camera Audiences
