When the fifth season starts production this week, a familiar face will be forced to stay out of some episodes of FOX The masked singer. On thursday, Variety reported that host of the series Nick Cannon tested positive for COVID-19 and is currently at rest in isolation – with Niecy Nash (Claws, Reno 911!) filling the place as a guest host until Cannon returns at the end of the season. With the masked singing competition series set to debut next month, Cannon is expected to return alongside the speakers Jenny McCarthy, Ken Jeong, Nicole Scherzinger, and Robin Thicke for another round of divination and speculation throughout the season. The news comes at a time when production was expected to begin today, after the fourth season, which also saw its production impacted by the pandemic.
“I am very happy to announce a new season of ‘The Masked Singer’,” said Rob Wade, President, Alternative Entertainment & Specials, FOX Entertainment, said in a statement at the time the series was officially renewed. “This show brings joy to so many families across the country, especially during these difficult times, and we can’t wait to have even more celebrities dressed in crazy costumes for an hour of pure fun every week.” Other celebrities who performed in the popular competition series include Gladys Knight, Donny Osmond, Seal, Patti LaBelle, Drew Carey, Lil Wayne, Mickey Rourke, Rob Gronkowski, Tori Spelling, Dionne Warwick, and more.
Here is a preview of the 5th season released by FOX last month:
FOX’s The masked singer is produced by FOX Alternative Entertainment. Cannon, Craig Plestis, James Breen, and Rosie Seitchik serve as executive producers, with Breen acting as a showrunner. The series is based on the South Korean format created by Mun Hwa Broadcasting Corp. The singing competition series returns in March 2021.