EastEnders legend Richard Blackwood has tantalisingly responded to speculation linking him to The Masked Singer UK with a cryptic remark.
Gracing the Good Morning Britain set on Tuesday (January 21), the actor was grilled by presenters and Richard Madeley about whether he’s the man behind Bear, a contestant on ITV’s hit singing show.
“He’s a very funny guy. He’s the stand-up soap star, best known for his breakout role in Albert Square, and now Richard Blackwood is returning to his comedic roots for his funniest show, people are saying, to date,” Madeley introduced.
Susanna chimed in: “But fans and Jonathan Ross are convinced it’s not his only new gig. Richard is top of the guest list for Bear on the Masked Singer.”
Following a clip of Bear belting out a tune, Richard admitted he’s been bombarded with messages questioning if he’s the mystery singer.
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Richard Blackwood has addressed rumours he’s performing as Bear on The Masked Singer UK (Image: ITV)
“Why do you think everyone thinks it’s you? ” probed Madeley, eliciting Richard’s response: “His swagger. The swagger is on point. I’m looking and going, ‘That’s how I would do it.’ You can’t put on a bear outfit and not know that the swagger’s got to be on point, because it’s not an everyday outfit. It’s hot in there and stuff, so I’ve heard.”
Susanna didn’t miss a beat, pressing him: “How do you know it’s hot in there? ” Richard swiftly clarified that his two-year stint in Shrek the Musical gave him insight into donning cumbersome costumes. “That’s how I’d do it if I was to do it,” he teased, leaving fans to wonder if he’s indeed the face behind Bear’s mask, reports the Mirror.
The identity of Bear on The Masked Singer has been the subject of much speculation in recent weeks, with a host of famous names being suggested. Richard, Tom Davis, Ade Edmondson, David Harewood and singer-songwriter Example have all been guessed by fans.
Fans have been trying to figure out who Bear is (Image: ITV)
Bear has showcased a range of vocal talents on the show, first performing ‘You’ve Got to Pick a Pocket or Two’ from the musical Oliver! before switching gears with a rendition of Will Smith’s 1997 hit ‘Miami’. Bear will be back on The Masked Singer stage this Saturday (January 25), battling for a spot in the next round.
Other remaining characters include Bush, Dressed Crab, Kingfisher, Pufferfish, Snail, Teeth and Wolf.
Good Morning Britain airs weekdays on ITV1 and ITVX at 6am and The Masked Singer UK is available to watch on ITVX