The Masked Singer viewers are convinced that the show’s ex-judge, Rita Ora, might be gracing the stage as a contestant, following three major clues.
Since Love Island host Maya Jama took over her seat on the judging panel, whispers have intensified, with the suggestion that Rita’s absence is due to her secret participation in the competition.
Having been a fixture as a judge from the very beginning of The Masked Singer back in 2020, Rita’s departure was announced in September 2024, and fans now suspect she’s returned not to judge but to perform.
In the midst of speculation, an eagle-eyed aficionado has spotlighted a triad of clues allegedly pointing to the singer’s clandestine role as Pufferfish.
A fan posted their hunch on a Masked Singer-specific thread, reports .
Fans convinced that former judge Rita Ora is making a comeback to the show (Image: ITV)
The post titled “Is Pufferfish Rita Ora!” reveals: “I think Pufferfish is Samantha Barks, but it could be Rita Ora as these clues do match.”
Detangling the hints, they continued: “Pair of dice that land on a 5 and 6 equals 11 – she first started on the US version Season 11. A five-year work diary- she did five series in the UK, but not this series as she is under that mask/ or it could mean about fifty shades when she sang the song for it.”
Finally touching upon a creepy-crawly clue, the sleuth added: “Spider- She duetted with Iggy Azalea with the song Black Widow. Still figuring the other clues out for Rita Ora.”
Fans took to the comments, with one enthusiasm-filled supporter exclaiming: “Love this!” Another, eager to piece together the puzzle, mused: “I bet Samantha Barks, but the twisted hints are rubber chicken, the American football, and also the dice. Second, I have no idea what connects to her and the spider clue.”
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One fan has highlighted three key clues suggesting that Rita is masquerading as Pufferfish. (Image: ITV)
One viewer ventured: “Pufferfish has the nicest voice, I reckon. I did wonder if Rita Ora might be on it because they’ve been reticent about her disappearance as a judge.”
Some have teased out potential connections between Ora and the clues. A fan proposed: “Some of the clues lead to a judge role. I don’t know her singing voice though,” This theory gained traction, with another confidently stating: “I’m legit convinced Pufferfish is Rita Ora.”
As the competition heats up, Pufferfish has wowed audiences with three captivating performances since its commencement earlier this month. Showcasing a range of musical tastes, Pufferfish has performed renditions of Good Luck, Babe! by Chappell Roan, the iconic Girls Just Wanna Have Fun by Cyndi Lauper, and Lose Control by Teddy Swims.
In the realm of speculation, fans have floated various names as the celebrity behind Pufferfish’s mask. Suggestions include Mabel and a surprising mention of Katy Perry.
The Masked Singer airs Saturday night from 7pm on ITV and ITVX