Deadline: 'The Masked Singer' Judge Ken Jeong Leaves the Show Amid COVID-19 Restrictions
Ken Jeong is being replaced on "The Masked Singer" after COVID-19 restrictions forced him to leave the show's British version. The actor shared his reaction this week.
According to Deadline, Ken Jeong is leaving "The Masked Singer" in the UK due to the coronavirus pandemic, which has caused worldwide travel limitations.
Jeong, 51, will remain as a judge on the Korean version of the show, leaving behind co-hosts Davina McCall, Rita Ora, and Jonathan Ross. His reaction is found below.
Ken Jeong attends the Unforgettable Evening 2020 in Beverly Hills, California on February 27, 2020 | Photo: Getty Images
JEONG TO BE REPLACED
The "Hangover" star stated that he is "gutted" about the circumstances but hopes he can return in the future for a cameo and offer his expertise. Jeong joked:
"I had so much fun on season 1 of 'The Masked Singer UK,' I told the team nothing short of a global pandemic would stop me from coming back for Season 2!"
Meanwhile, British comedian Mo Gilligan will step into Jeong's shoes for the new season. Gilligan has said he is looking forward to being part of the fun competitive show, which brings joy to its millions of viewers.
Robin Thicke, Jenny McCarthy, Ken Jeong, Jason Biggs, and Nicole Scherzinger do paneling for "The Masked Sing" in December 2019 | Photo: Getty Images
BOW WOW IS THANKFUL
The show is also helpful to its celebrity contestants. For instance, in May, Bow Wow showed himself as the Frog, ending in third place for the season. In a follow-up interview, the singer opened up about the results.
Bow Wow noted that those who would previously have something to say about his voice no longer have a leg to stand on. "Now they have to give me my props," he insisted.
FANS ANGRY AT RESULTS
Elsewhere last season, some fans felt second-place holder Jesse McCartney was robbed after Kandi Burruss took home "The Masked Singer" trophy on the American version of the show.
Burruss, a songwriter and tv personality, wore the Night Angel costume during the show. After she won, she announced the release of her new single, "Used to Love Me."
EVANCHO GUIDED BY SHOW
The season also saw singer Jackie Evancho nearly reach the finals with the other stars. Unfortunately, as the Kitty, Evancho received the fewest number of votes.
Still, she was thankful to the panelists for helping her decide what direction she would be taking her career. Of course, not all the judges are experts in the music industry.
Despite being best known for his acting, though, Jeong is big on karaoke. For his birthday last year, he invited his fellow hosts to join him at a karaoke bar. He was also the MC at karaoke nights in college.
BOOS FOR JEONG'S GUESS
Last November, Jeong made a mistake when he guessed wrongly on "The Masked Singer" for the Ladybug. Based on the clues, Jeong believed it was Lindsey Lohan behind the mask.
Lindsay Lohan attends a Holiday Party in New York City on December 6, 2017 | Photo: Getty Images
The audience so disagreed that they loudly booed for Jeong, who was unmoved by the reaction. In the end, Kelly Osbourne was the one behind the mask.