The Masked Singer UK’s sixth season has been a hit with fans nationwide, as we continue to speculate about the celebrities behind the latest batch of characters.
Some big names have already been revealed, including Good Morning Britain’s Kate Garraway, Bake Off judge Prue Leith, 90s pop sensation Macy Gray, T’Pau’s Carol Decker, and TV host Mel Giedroyc.
Last weekend saw a thrilling double reveal, with artist Grayson Perry and Irish singer Andrea Corr unmasked as Kingfisher and Snail, respectively.
As we near the series finale, only five characters remain – Bear, Bush, Dressed Crab, Pufferfish and Wolf. The Bear costume has left many fans puzzled, with several names being suggested. Their versatile vocal performances, ranging from You’ve Got to Pick a Pocket or Two from Oliver! to Will Smith’s 1998 banger Miami, have kept us on edge, reports the Mirror.
So, let’s explore the current theories for the cuddly creature ahead of tonight’s eagerly awaited semi-final.
Richard Blackwood
Former EastEnders star Richard Blackwood was one of the first names linked to Bear, with Jonathan Ross mentioning him in an earlier episode.
The actor responded cryptically to the rumours on Good Morning Britain a fortnight ago, stating: “That’s how I’d do it if I was to do it.”
Richard also hinted that Bear’s “swagger” might have led people to become suspicious about his participation in the show, dropping a hint that it’s rather warm inside the costume but quickly adding: “So I’ve heard.”
The speculation continued as Richard appeared to let slip he was behind the Bear disguise during an awkward moment on live television. Speaking on ITV News about The Masked Singer, Richard seemed to accidentally give himself away.
“The moves and the way I… I mean, that’s how I would do it,” he commented, looking quite embarrassed. Was this an inadvertent reveal or a deliberate deception?
Example
Fans are suggesting that Elliot John Gleave, better known as rapper Example, could be the celebrity under the Bear mask. Panellist Mo Gilligan now seems convinced after he proposed Example’s name recently.
“Now, I’ve got a confession to make, guys. I think I’ve known who this is for a couple weeks, I’m just gonna say it out now,” he said. “I think, under there, is my friend Example. I think it could be.”
Mo explained his reasoning, saying Bear’s posture reminds him of Example, who is also his good mate. He noted that the clue “EG” could point to the rapper’s initials and the various music genre hints.
Fellow judge Maya Jama supported this theory, concurring: “I think it’s Example, as well.”
Maya added that a particular clue about a chicken might relate to Example’s past musical antics with Ed Sheeran, referencing their Nando’s skit on YouTube. Could the judges be close to cracking the case?
Doc Brown
Speculation is rife among fans who believe that Bear’s distinctive voice bears an uncanny resemblance to Ben Bailey Smith, otherwise known as Doc Brown.
The star is known for his acting roles as DS Joe Hawkins on Law and Order: UK and Lieutenant Supervisor Blevin in the Disney+ series Andor. He also led the 4 O’Clock Club on CBBC from 2012 to 2015, where his rapping skills came to light – much like Bear.
Doc Brown is also behind a children’s book titled I Am Bear and is a Crystal Palace supporter, details that have been hinted at in Bear’s cryptic clues.
One keen-eyed viewer stated on X (formerly Twitter): “Bear is Doc Brown I think,” with another concurring: “Bear is Ben Bailey Smith (Doc Brown). Again, shan’t hear otherwise.”
Other names thrown into the mix include Patrick Stewart, Tom Davis, David Harewood, and Reggie Yates, with theatrical hints and football and comedy references peppering the clue packages, possibly pointing towards a star of the stage.
Yet some fans have admitted they’re baffled by Bear’s ever-changing vocals, with one commenting: “Bear changes what they sound like every week. So I’m not even going to try.”
As the finale draws near, the true identity of Bear will soon be unmasked, leaving all speculation behind. Who do you reckon is behind the mask?
The Masked Singer UK is available to watch on ITVX