The Masked Singer reveals 'absolutely fabulous' Rita Ora replacement

Virgin Radio

3 Oct 2023, 11:56

The Masked Singer has revealed Rita Ora’s temporary replacement - and it’s fair to say it’s an ‘absolutely fabulous’ choice!

Speaking with The Sun, a source for the show has revealed that comedy icon Jennifer Saunders will be taking to the star studded panel to replace Rita in one episode of the upcoming celebrity singing competition.

The ‘You & I’ singer has had to pull out of some appearances on the next season of the popular reality TV show due to her other work commitments, leading to ITV needing to look for other stars to appear in her place.

“Jennifer is only filing in for the one show but everyone involved is really excited about it,” a source told The Sun.

“She’s a national treasure and is bound to go down a treat with viewers. It’s a real coup for the show,” they continued.

Rita’s absence was previously confirmed by sources for the programme, who stressed at the time it would not last the whole of the next season.

“Filming on the new instalment begins in the coming weeks and Rita is going to be there when she can,” they revealed back in mid-September.

“The show is a huge part of Rita’s life but her hectic schedule means she is going to miss a couple of shows in the upcoming series,” they explained.

Davina McCall, Jonathan Ross and Mo Gilligan will all be returning to the panel for the fifth season of the programme, and Joel Dommett will be returning as its host as well.

The programme’s most recent series in 2023 saw Virgin Radio’s own Ricky Wilson unmasked as Phoenix. Ricky was the runner-up of the competition, which saw Busted’s Charlie Simpson win as Rhino.

The Masked Singer series five is expected to air on ITV1 and ITVX early in 2024.