The Masked Singer viewers convinced Maypole is Rita Ora as judge goes missing from show
VIEWERS of The Masked Singer have been left suspicious that the first competitor was Rita Ora as the judge went missing from the show.
The fifth season of the singing competition kicked off tonight with a character called the Maypole.
The figure made allusions to being a model as she danced around the English countryside.
Fans were left wondering who the star behind the mask could be, but soon began suspecting one particular pop star when she started singing.
Rita Ora is usually on the UK panel of judges, but was conspicuously absent from her usual spot tonight, which also fuelled speculation.
Stand up comedian Mo Gilligan was the first to voice the theory, saying: "I think it might be Rita Ora.";
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Viewers across the UK took to X to share the sentiment.
One person mused: "I think it's Rita Ora. If so, what a curveball."
Another added: "I fully think Maypole is Rita Ora btw."
A third agreed: "I could almost believe that IS Rita Ora in Maypole, just for a twist."
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Someone else exclaimed: "Could Maypole be… RITA ORA!!!!"
However, other viewers pointed out that the singer had already explained why she would be missing from the opening episode.
She told viewers that she was busy filming the US version of the programme, adding: "I have missed three episodes and I hate missing this show. It’s one of my favourite things to do, I love the panel, I love having this job and I love doing this show.
"I’ve come back with better detective skills, I’d like to think. We’ll see how good they are but I am very grateful and happy to be back. These guys are like family."
When it comes to The Masked Singer US and The Masked Singer UK, both hit shows share a number of similarities.
However, one notable difference is the winning prize.
In the US, the winner of the singing show receives the coveted Golden Mask Trophy.
Whereas in the UK there is no prize or money awarded to the winner.