Rita Ora reveals key contrasts between judging The Masked Singer in the U.K. and the U.S.

Rita Ora stepped in as a fill-in for panelist Nicole Scherzinger on The Masked Singer, as Scherzinger was occupied with starring in Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Sunset Boulevard on London’s West End. Rita Ora, known for her role as a panelist on The Masked Singer UK for several seasons, easily transitioned to joining Ken Jeong, Jenny McCarthy Wahlberg, and Robin Thicke on the U.S. panel.

American viewers will have their debut glimpse of Ora at the panelists' table as The Masked Singer makes its return on Wednesday on Fox. The episode kicks off with Ora's rendition of The Who's "Who Are You?", one of the show's iconic themes.

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Embracing the Scale and Talent

"I think here in the U.S. it's just definitely bigger," Ora commented on the comparison between the two countries' editions of The Masked Singer. She mentioned her five-season experience on the UK version, expressing how it has been a joy. Observing the talent level on the US version, she felt compelled to join the excitement.

Introducing Ora to The Masked Singer in the U.S., the producers had no concerns about familiarizing her with the format's unique elements. While the panelists don't serve as judges or mentors, they play a pivotal role in deciphering the identities of the contestants hidden beneath the elaborate costumes.

Rita Ora's Familiar Ties on 'The Masked Singer' US

Ora had previously collaborated with Jeong during Season 1 of The Masked Singer UK, where he also acted as a panelist. She was familiar with Thicke through their connections in the music industry. Additionally, Nick Cannon returns as the host of the show.

This season of The Masked Singer will include themed episodes such as The Wizard of Oz, in honor of the classic film's 85th anniversary, and Transformers, commemorating the brand's 40th anniversary. The upcoming season of The Masked Singer will also feature music tributes such as Billy Joel Night and Queen Night. Other themes include Girl Groups, Soundtrack of My Life, TV Theme Night, and Shower Anthems.

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