The guessing game is back on as The Masked Singer UK returns to ITV screens for a brand new episode. The popular series, which sees celebrities perform in elaborate disguises, welcomed a special guest judge this week.
New Episode and Guest Judge Revealed
Ben Shephard joined the regular panel of Davina McCall, Maya Jama, Jonathan Ross, and Mo Gilligan for the latest instalment, which aired on Saturday, 17 January 2026. Five mysterious characters took to the stage, fighting for their place in the competition.
The performers battling to stay in costume were Red Panda, Moth, Gargoyle, Sloth, and Can of Worms. Their identities remain a closely guarded secret, leaving viewers and judges scrambling for clues.
Recent Unmaskings and Contestant Revelations
The new episode follows a major revelation from the previous week. John Lydon, the former Sex Pistols frontman, was unmasked as Yak. Speaking about his experience on the show, Lydon said he hoped to show his fun side, describing himself as a "court jester by nature."
He also revealed a practical reason for taking part, stating: "I'm in the middle of recording an album and a little bit of extra cash will go a long way towards that budget. We’re independent."
In another recent unmasking, The One Show presenter Alex Jones was revealed as Disc Jockey. Jones told host Joel Dommett that she wanted to show her children that "overcoming fear is a good thing," despite not being a singer.
Fan Theories Run Rampant Online
As always, the show has sparked a frenzy of speculation on social media. Fans are convinced they have identified several of the remaining contestants.
Many viewers believe Conkers is X Factor star Olly Murs. Clues such as "hit my Mark"—a potential reference to his Heart Radio show co-host Mark Wright—and a Lego heart have fuelled the theory. One fan commented online: "Conkers sounds like Olly Murs deliberately singing off key."
Another costume causing a stir is Monkey Business. A strong consensus points towards Atomic Kitten's Natasha Hamilton being the person behind the mask. Multiple fans took to social media platform X to share their conviction, with one writing: "It's Natasha Hamilton but is it too obvious?"
The hunt for the truth continues as the series progresses, with more singing, more clues, and more shocking reveals guaranteed.
