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WARNING: Details below pertain to Season 12, Episode 9 of “The Masked Singer,” titled “Peanuts Night,” which aired on Thursday, November 28, on Fox.
In a thrilling twist during this special Thanksgiving episode of “The Masked Singer,” the show featured a double elimination. Both the Royal Knight and Sherlock Hound were sent home as the series celebrated the beloved Peanuts characters. The Royal Knight was revealed to be the talented singer and actress Jana Kramer, known for her role in “One Tree Hill.” Meanwhile, Sherlock Hound was unmasked to be former Major League Baseball player Bronson Arroyo, surprising fans and panelists alike.
The unmasking of the Royal Knight was the first big reveal of the evening. Among the judges, Jenny McCarthy-Wahlberg accurately guessed Jana Kramer, while Rita Ora speculated that it was Anna Faris. Ken Jeong believed it was Kelly Ripa, while Robin Thicke thought it might be Busy Philipps. The excitement of guessing the celebrity identities kept viewers on the edge of their seats.
Following the unmasking, Strawberry Shortcake and Sherlock Hound faced off in a fierce musical showdown, performing the hit song “Shivers” by Ed Sheeran. Strawberry Shortcake triumphed, moving forward to the quarterfinals, while Sherlock Hound was revealed to the audience, adding another layer of drama to the evening’s festivities.
For the Sherlock Hound reveal, both Robin Thicke and Ken Jeong correctly identified Bronson Arroyo. However, Jenny McCarthy-Wahlberg thought he was Scott Stapp from Creed, while Rita Ora suggested it could be Hozier. The guessing game continued to keep viewers engaged and entertained throughout the episode.
In their final performances, Kramer captivated the audience with her rendition of “Holiday” by Madonna, while Arroyo delivered a heartfelt version of “Ho Hey” by The Lumineers. These powerful performances showcased the contestants’ vocal abilities and emotional depth, leaving a lasting impression.
The episode was themed “Peanuts Night,” a celebration not only of Thanksgiving but also of the upcoming 75th anniversary of the Peanuts comic strip, which first debuted in 1950. The show kicked off with the “Masked Singer” panelists sitting around a Thanksgiving dinner table, accompanied by iconic Peanuts characters. The atmosphere was lively, featuring a performance by Rita Ora and Robin Thicke, who sang “You Make My Dreams Come True” by Daryl Hall and John Oates, setting a joyful tone for the evening.
Both Jana Kramer, as the Royal Knight, and Bronson Arroyo, as Sherlock Hound, joined a lineup of other celebrities unmasked this season, including Drake Bell as Ice King, Bethany Hamilton as Macaron, Natalie Imbruglia as Bluebell, Laverne Cox as Chess Piece, Andy Richter as Dusty Bunny, Paula Cole as Ship, Marsai Martin as Woodpecker, Yvette Nicole Brown as Showbird, and John Elway as Leaf Sheep. This season has been filled with surprises and delightful performances.
Returning for Season 12 are host Nick Cannon, along with panelists Jenny McCarthy Wahlberg, Ken Jeong, and Robin Thicke. Additionally, Rita Ora has returned for her second consecutive season, filling in for Nicole Scherzinger, enhancing the judging panel’s dynamic and chemistry.
This season of “The Masked Singer” features themed episodes that honor various pop culture icons, including tributes to Mattel’s Barbie for its 65th anniversary and the film “Footloose,” which celebrates its 40th anniversary. Additionally, there will be a special episode honoring Miley Cyrus and her extensive music catalog. New features include the “Who Are You Fest,” showcasing memorable festival lineups, as well as special nights dedicated to sports and the 1960s. Classic themes such as “Soundtrack of My Life” and “Thanksgiving Night” are also returning, promising an exciting array of performances.
This season introduces innovative clues that will be “strategically embedded in costumes, song selections, and on-stage moments.” Moreover, the fifteen celebrity contestants are backed by a “celebrity Masked Ambassador,” comprising former participants like Dick Van Dyke (Season 9’s Gnome), Jewel (Season 6 winner as the Queen of Hearts), Ne-yo (Season 10 winner as the Cow), and DeMarcus Ware (Season 11’s Koala). Additionally, the “Ding Dong Keep It On” bell makes its return, allowing one singer to be saved during the three group finals, adding to the suspense and excitement of the competition.
Season 12 features an array of 15 contestants, each adorned in new and creative costumes, including “Ship,” “Leaf Sheep,” “Woodpecker,” “Chess Piece,” “Bluebell,” “Buffalo,” “Showbird,” “Dust Bunny,” “Goo,” “Strawberry Shortcake,” “Sherlock Hound,” “Royal Knight,” “Ice King,” “Macaron,” and more, showcasing the show’s commitment to creativity and entertainment.
During Thursday’s Episode 9, titled “Thanksgiving Night,” the final performances of Group C captivated the audience, building anticipation for the next round of the competition:
Unveiling the Talents of Strawberry Shortcake
Performance: “I Hope You Dance” by Lee Ann Womack
Panel’s Predictions: The judges speculated that the identity of Strawberry Shortcake could be Kelsea Ballerini, Hailee Steinfeld, or Selena Gomez, showcasing their knowledge of the music industry and their ability to connect clues with potential contestants.
Thanksgiving Clue: Mouse ears. “Mouse ears have been instrumental in how I got my start.” This clue hints at a significant connection to her early career, potentially referencing her beginnings in the entertainment industry.
Strawberry Shortcake’s Voiceover: “Thanksgiving is one of my favorite holidays. I cherish many sweet memories from this time, including being part of the big parade! But my fondest memories are from being in the kitchen with my mother. Growing up, we sang together all the time, harmonizing at the top of our lungs. Her beautiful voice inspired me to pursue my dreams, even when I was scared. I am so grateful she encouraged me. However, over the years, I saw her lose her confidence to sing; her stage fright took over, which was heartbreaking. I miss hearing her voice and would give anything to hear her sing again. This performance is dedicated to her, and if seeing me dressed as a delicious dessert on Thanksgiving inspires her to sing again, that would be the icing on the cake.”
Previous Performances: “Slow Burn” by Kacey Musgraves and “Wrecking Ball” by Miley Cyrus demonstrated her vocal range and versatility, keeping viewers engaged throughout the season.
Earlier Panel Guesses: The panel had also considered other possibilities, including Renee Rapp, Lana Del Rey, Rachel Ziegler, Chloe Fineman, Hilary Duff, and Ashley Tisdale, showcasing the range of talent they believe may be hidden behind the mask.
Revealing the Royal Knight’s Identity
Performance: “Holiday” by Madonna
Panel’s Predictions: The panelists had a variety of guesses, including Anna Faris, Busy Philipps, and Jana Kramer, showcasing their analytical skills and experience in the entertainment industry.
Thanksgiving Clue: “Best-selling author.” “I act, I sing, I live my life to the fullest and I even wrote a best-selling book all about it.” This clue provides insight into the Royal Knight’s multifaceted career and accomplishments.
Royal Knight’s Voiceover: “I have more to be grateful for than ever before, as I am finally living my happily ever after. Tonight my knight’s table will truly be a feast to behold. First, there’s my eldest, who lovingly carves the turkey, then my middle child, my sweet little soulmate, who sets the table. This year, I will celebrate with our miracle baby, who gets to experience pumpkin pie for the very first time. Days like this remind me how far I’ve come from the shell of a girl I once was. I’ve endured a lot in life, facing judgment and ridicule, which has taken me a long time to overcome. Now I teach my children to love themselves from the start. This performance is for them, and I’m thankful for making me the luckiest mom in the world, because this holiday, everything I need is right here at my table.”
Previous Performances: “You and I” by Lady Gaga and “When I Look at You” by Miley Cyrus highlight her emotional depth and vocal prowess throughout the season.
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