The seventh series of The Masked Singer UK kicked off with a splash on ITV tonight, delivering its first major celebrity reveal. The popular guessing game, hosted by Joel Dommett, saw panellists Davina McCall, Jonathan Ross, Maya Jama, and Mo Gilligan return to the detective panel.
First Mask Falls as Goldfish is Revealed
In a surprising early exit, the character Goldfish became the first contestant to be unmasked in the 2026 series. The costume was lifted to reveal pop sensation Anne-Marie, sending the panel into gasps and cheers. The 34-year-old singer then performed her hit single 2002 for the studio audience, this time without her aquatic disguise.
Only one panellist successfully identified the star. Maya Jama correctly guessed Anne-Marie's identity thanks to a clever clue. The show's first-ever house band, named 'No Trout', featured a member adorned with black belts. This was a direct nod to Anne-Marie's background as a black belt and former world champion in Shotokan karate.
A Packed Weekend of Unmaskings Ahead
The launch show on January 3, 2026, was a bumper episode, promising not one but two reveals. Following performances from Can of Worms, Disc Jockey, Gargoyle, Moth, and Sloth, another celebrity will be unmasked before the night is out.
The action continues at a rapid pace, with the show returning on January 4 for its third and fourth reveals. This season is set to feature more unmaskings than any previous series. The next set of characters hoping to outwit the panel include Arctic Fox, Conkers, Monkey Business, Teabag, Toastie, and Yak.
Following in the Footsteps of Past Champions
The new contestants will be aiming to emulate the success of past winners. The reigning champion is West End star Samantha Barks, who won the 2025 series. She took the crown from 2024 winner Danny Jones of McFly.
The show's history of victors includes Charlie Simpson (2023), Natalie Imbruglia (2022), Joss Stone (2021), and the original champion, Girls Aloud's Nicola Roberts as Queen Bee in 2020.
The Masked Singer UK 2026 continues on ITV1 and the ITVX streaming service, offering viewers a weekend packed with musical mystery and celebrity surprises.