SPOILER ALERT: Details follow for Season 12, Episode 7 of “The Masked Singer,” “Who Are You Fest Night,” which aired November 13 on Fox.
Surfer Bethany Hamilton, who was unmasked as the celebrity behind the Macaron costume on the latest episode of “The Masked Singer,” expressed her delight about her time on the show despite her early exit. As Group C competition kicked off, fans were surprised to see Hamilton, known for her inspiring journey as a professional surfer, take to the stage on Wednesday evening.
Hamilton shared with Variety, “I wanted to originally do ‘The Masked Singer’ just because I thought it would be fun,” adding that she sings to her children every day and hoped to improve her vocal skills. “This experience has also presented a wonderful opportunity to uplift and encourage others, which is central to my life’s mission.”
Among the celebrity panelists guessing her identity, Rita Ora correctly identified Hamilton while Jenny McCarthy-Wahlberg voiced her agreement. However, Ken Jeong was convinced it was Gypsy Rose Blanchard, and Robin Thicke speculated it might be Ariana Madix.
Reflecting on her experience in the Macaron costume, Hamilton said, “I loved my costume, but it was also really challenging to move in and dance in – it was super hard.” She admitted that mastering dance moves in a limited timeframe was particularly tough for her. “Let’s just say I’m better at surfing!”
Bethany Hamilton as Macaron now joins an impressive list of previously unmasked celebrities from “The Masked Singer” Season 12, which includes notable performances from Natalie Imbruglia as Bluebell, Laverne Cox as Chess Piece, and Andy Richter as Dusty Bunny, among others.
Returning for Season 12 are host Nick Cannon, alongside panelists Jenny McCarthy Wahlberg, Ken Jeong, and Robin Thicke, with Rita Ora also making her return for the second consecutive season to fill in for Nicole Scherzinger, bringing her own unique flair to the judges’ table.
Season 12 of “The Masked Singer” showcases an array of unique themed episodes, including vibrant tributes to Mattel’s iconic Barbie brand, which celebrates its 65th anniversary, and the classic film “Footloose,” commemorating its 40th year. Additionally, Miley Cyrus will be honored with a dedicated episode featuring her beloved musical catalog. New themes like “Who Are You Fest,” highlighting nostalgic festival lineups, and exciting concepts such as “Sports Night” and “60’s Night” will also take center stage. Returning fan-favorite themes include “Soundtrack of My Life” and the much-anticipated “Thanksgiving Night.”
The twelfth season introduces 15 contestants, donned in a variety of creative costumes including “Ship,” “Leaf Sheep,” “Woodpecker,” “Chess Piece,” “Bluebell,” “Buffalo,” “Showbird,” “Dust Bunny,” “Goo,” “Strawberry Shortcake,” and more, each bringing their own flair to the competition.
Here were the first Group C performances on Wednesday’s Episode 7, “Who Are You Fest Night”:
Royal Knight
Song: “You and I,” by Lady Gaga
Panel guesses: Ashley Tisdale, Lily James, Hayden Panettiere
Masked Ambassador: Savannah Chrisley (Season 11, Afghan Hound) “It’s no secret that my life has been pretty rough lately. But I am here to introduce to you the toughest woman that I know: Royal Knight. You are one of the fiercest friends I have, and I think that tonight for your performance, you’re gonna slay.”
Royal Knight voiceover: “Chapter 1. As a young girl, I thought I’d have that fairy tale life. So, I went on a quest for it. But it turns out, mine was no fantasy. There was heartbreak and terror behind every corner. Until I became the warrior that I am today.”
Sherlock Hound
Song: “Under the Bridge,” by Red Hot Chili Peppers
Panel guesses: Eddie Vedder, Gavin Rossdale, Chad Kroeger, Brandon Boyd
Merch wall clue: T-shirt that says “#1 hit.” “I know what it’s like to be No. 1 in the world.”
Masked Ambassador: Barry Zito (Season 3, Rhino) “You know what they say, you can’t teach an old dog new tricks. But I can tell you firsthand, my friend Sherlock Hound begs to differ.”
Sherlock Hound voiceover: “My whole family was into music. My grandma taught it, and my old man played the keys. When I heard rock and roll, it unleashed a passion inside. Some might say a mystery I needed to solve.”
Ice King
Song: “Tonight Tonight,” by Hot Chelle Rae
Panel guesses: Pete Wentz, Joe Jonas, MrBeast
Merch wall clue: T-shirt that says, “drop the fire beat.” “I’ve traveled the world dropping beats in front of massive crowds. But tonight has been the most lit.”
Masked Ambassador: Hanson (Season 5, Russian Dolls) “Now we know another secret, the identity of our chill friend, Ice King. He sold out the largest stadiums and was given the royal treatment as if he was one of the Beatles.”
Ice King voiceover: “Pretty cool, right? I ruled the school. But, Hollywood can be a little cold. So I ran away and went into a deep freeze that lasted for years. I found the courage to come back and stand in the spotlight once again.”
Macaron
Song: “Call Me Maybe,” by Carly Rae Jepsen
Panel guesses: Gypsy Rose Blanchard, Monica Lewinsky, Ariana Madix
Merch wall clue: T-shirt that says “unstoppable, blooming all year long.” “I’ve overcome a lot in my life and no matter what comes my way, I know I’m unstoppable.”
Masked Ambassador: Willie Robertson (Season 6, Mallard) “My world was turned upside down when I became the Mallard in Season 6. And if anyone knows how life can change in an instant, it’s my friend Macaron.”
Macaron voiceover: “Yeah, growing up life was pretty sweet. Until my life changed forever. Instead of my spirit crumbling, I dug deep. I fought hard and started from scratch. Ever since, everything else seems a little less serious.”
Strawberry Shortcake
Song: “Slow Burn,” by Kacey Musgraves
Panel guesses: Renee Rapp, Lana del Rey, Rachel Ziegler
Merch wall clue: T-shirt that says “break a leg.” “My breakthrough role showed the world my potential.”
Masked Ambassador: Hayley Orrantia (Season 7, Ringmaster) “I’m so stoked to introduce my friend, and it’s perfect that she’s making her debut tonight, because she’s truly a festival favorite.”
Strawberry Shortcake voiceover: “When I was young, I dreamed of going to a music festival. But even though I believed that I was headline material, I sat on the sideline watching everyone else have the fun. Until one day I got the call…to open one of the most iconic ones. A slow burn, but the best things are worth the wait.”
“The Masked Singer” continues to provide entertainment, engaging audiences with its surprising twists and celebrity reveals. The show, which has captivated fans with its unique format, is produced by Fox Alternative Entertainment. Executive producers include Rosie Seitchik, Craig Plestis, and Nick Cannon, who also serves as the show’s charismatic host. Inspired by the South Korean original created by Mun Hwa Broadcasting Corp., “The Masked Singer” promises to deliver more thrilling episodes ahead.
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Song: “Fight Song,” by Rachel Platten
Panel guesses: Kelly Clarkson, Bebe Rexha, Kelsea Ballerini
Merch wall clue: T-shirt that says “sweet and strong.” “I may look cute, but I can pack a punch when it comes to resilience.”
Masked Ambassador: JoJo Siwa (Season 3, Unicorn) “You may know me for my sparkles and bows, but trust me, Strawberry Shortcake knows how to shine even brighter. This girl is unstoppable!”
Strawberry Shortcake voiceover: “For a long time, I’ve been underestimated because of my sweetness. But just like strawberries in the sun, I’ve learned to thrive no matter the circumstances. I’m ready to show the world my inner strength.”
