FUMING The Masked Singer fans have pointed out a huge issue with the show’s updated judging panel.
Love Island host Maya Jama has been confirmed as a new panelist, taking over from Rita Ora.
Love Island host Maya Jama is joining The Masked Singer[/caption]
She is replacing Rita Ora, who has left after five series[/caption]
Some viewers have pointed out an issue with Maya joining the panel[/caption]
The I Will Never Let You Down singer has officially exited the ITV hit after five series.
Some viewers aren’t happy, as they said Maya lacks the singing expertise Rita brought to the panel.
Taking to Reddit, one person wrote: “I still don’t think this was the right choice, but what you gonna do.
“Should have been a singer or someone with musical experience.”
Over on Instagram, another fumed: “Well this is a shambles, they should have at least one singer on here.”
As a third chimed in: “So on a singing show, there isn’t a single judge that’s a singer?”
However, a fellow fan argued having a singing background isn’t necessary as a judge, penning: “Everyone stressing… this isn’t a singing competition!!!!
“It’s about guessing who the person singing is – RELAX..”
Rita’s exit marks the first big change to the show since its 2020 launch.
Meanwhile, Maya is joining host Joel Dommett, as well as returning judges Jonathan Ross, Davina McCall and Mo Gilligan.
Addressing her new gig, Maya said: “I’m such a Masked Singer fan, so joining the panel alongside Davina, Jonathan, and Mo—and of course working with Joel—is going to be so much fun!
“I can’t wait to figure out who’s underneath all those incredible costumes, vibe to their performances, and get front-row seats to the unmaskings.
“I’ve watched the show for a long time, so I’m definitely bringing my A-game to the panel!”
The Sun previously revealed how Rita had decided to step away from the beloved ITV series.
The Masked Singer Judges and Host
The Masked Singer has been a smash-hit for ITV since launching in 2020. Here’s a look at the show’s familiar on air team.
Judges
Current:
- Jonathan Ross: Presenter and film critic Jonathan has been part of The Masked Singer since its first series.
- Davina McCall: Long Lost Family co-host Davina is also one of the show’s original panellists.
- Mo Gilligan: Comedian and presenter Mo joined in series two, replacing US star Ken Jeong.
- Maya Jama: Love Island presenter Maya is set to join in series six, replacing Rita Ora.
Former:
- Rita Ora: Singer and actress Rita appeared as a judge for the first five series. Her departure from the show was confirmed in September 2024.
Host
Joel Dommett: Joel has presented every series of The Masked Singer so far.
We first told how Maya was being lined up by execs to replace her as Rita had conflicting filming commitments.
Earlier this year, Rita joined the hit show’s US counterpart, replacing Nicole Scherzinger.
The next series of The Masked Singer UK is set to land on ITV1 early next year.
The Masked Singer airs on ITV1.
Rita is married to New Zealand filmmaker Taika Waititi[/caption]
