Honestly, it’s hard to imagine The Masked Singer without Nick Cannon’s flashy suits and high-energy "Daddy's home!" energy. He’s been the face of the show since it first blew up in 2019. But if you’ve been following the news lately, or just catching up on Season 14, you know it hasn't always been a smooth ride. People tend to think he’s just this permanent fixture who never leaves the stage, but the reality is way more complicated. He’s been fired, rehired, replaced by Niecy Nash, and even competed as a contestant while he was supposed to be the host.
It's wild.
The Nick Cannon Masked Singer Saga: Can He Actually Be Replaced?
When people talk about Nick Cannon on The Masked Singer, they usually focus on two things: his massive family or those wild custom suits. But let's get into the nitty-gritty of why his spot on the show was actually in jeopardy. Back in 2020, Nick found himself in some seriously hot water. He made some comments on his podcast, Cannon’s Class, that were rightfully labeled as antisemitic and racist. ViacomCBS (now Paramount Global) didn't hesitate—they cut ties with him immediately, which put his long-running show Wild 'N Out on ice.
Everyone thought Fox was going to do the same.
But they didn't.
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Fox decided to keep him on after he issued a pretty extensive apology and spent time meeting with Jewish leaders and rabbis. It was a huge controversy at the time. Some fans were furious and promised to boycott. Others felt he deserved a second chance because he seemed genuinely committed to "learning." Whether you agree with the decision or not, it changed the way people viewed him as the host. He wasn't just the "funny guy" anymore; he became a figure of intense debate.
That time he was "The Bulldog"
Remember Season 5? That was probably the weirdest era of the show. Nick tested positive for COVID-19 right as production was starting. The producers had to scramble. They brought in the legendary Niecy Nash to fill his shoes, and she was actually really good. Some people on Twitter (now X) were even saying they preferred her vibe over Nick’s.
Then came the twist.
During the fifth episode, a wildcard contestant named "The Bulldog" performed. After the reveal, it turned out to be Nick Cannon himself. It was a clever way to transition him back into the hosting seat. He didn't just walk back on set; he had to "earn" his way back through the mask. It was peak reality TV drama.
Who is on the Panel in 2026?
We are currently in Season 14, which premiered on January 7, 2026. If you’re watching the current episodes, you’ve noticed the dynamic has shifted a bit. While Nick is still the main man, the panel has seen some familiar faces and some newer ones.
- Ken Jeong: Still there, still making terrible guesses. Honestly, his "I know exactly who this is" bit is basically a ritual at this point.
- Jenny McCarthy-Wahlberg: The sleuth of the group. She still manages to pick up on the tiniest clues that everyone else misses.
- Robin Thicke: Providing the "musical expertise" even though he's often just as confused as Ken.
- Rita Ora: She’s been a fantastic addition, bringing that UK Masked Singer energy to the US stage.
One of the coolest things about this year is the introduction of Kylie Cantrall as "America’s Insider." It’s a total game-changer because the audience actually knows one of the identities while the judges are still in the dark. It keeps the format fresh so it doesn't just feel like "another season of the same thing."
Recent Shocks and Unmaskings
Season 14 has already been a rollercoaster. We’ve seen some massive names go home early.
- David Ortiz (Googly Eyes): Seeing a baseball Hall of Famer under a giant googly-eyed mask is why this show exists.
- Tiffany Haddish (Le Who Who): A total surprise. Her voice is so distinct, but she managed to throw people off for a bit.
- Todd and Julie Chrisley (The Croissants): This was... a choice. Given their legal history, it definitely got people talking on social media.
Why the "Nick Cannon Masked Singer" Connection Persists
Why does Fox keep him? It’s simple: chemistry.
Nick has this specific way of interacting with the costumes that doesn't feel forced. He treats a giant taco or a singing eggplant like they're his best friends. He’s also a workhorse. In late 2025, it was announced he’d also be taking over hosting duties for Lego Masters Season 6 because Will Arnett had scheduling conflicts. The man is everywhere.
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He also leans into the jokes. The judges constantly roast him about having 12 kids, and he takes it in stride. That self-deprecation is probably why he survived the 2020 scandal. He knows how to play the "entertainment" game better than almost anyone else in the industry.
Addressing the Rumors
Is Nick Cannon leaving The Masked Singer?
Short answer: No.
Every few seasons, a rumor starts that he’s "stepping down" to focus on his other 50 projects or his family. But as of January 2026, he’s firmly in the host's chair. His contract seems solid, and the ratings—while not what they were in Season 1—are still strong enough to keep the lights on at Fox.
What You Should Watch For Next
If you're keeping up with the current season, keep an eye on Stingray. The clues are pointing heavily toward Evan Ross (Diana Ross’s son), especially after that mention of his mom’s legendary Hollywood parties. Nick even teased it on air, saying, "I know who this is. This is definitely my friend."
Also, "Fear Night" is coming up. Johnny Knoxville is guest-starring to hand out clues, which basically guarantees things are going to get messy.
Actionable Takeaways for Fans
- Follow the Digital Clues: Fox has been hiding extra clues on their social media pages that aren't always in the main broadcast.
- Watch the "Insider" Segment: Since we know who the Cat Witch (Kylie Cantrall) is, pay attention to how she interacts with the other contestants. It’s a different perspective we’ve never had before.
- Check the Podcasts: Nick often discusses behind-the-scenes moments on his own platforms, though he’s careful about NDAs.
The show has evolved from a weird fever dream into a staple of American TV. And despite the controversies and the temporary replacements, Nick Cannon remains the glue that holds the chaos together. Whether he's unmasking a legendary athlete or getting roasted by Ken Jeong, he’s built a brand on this stage that’s hard to replicate.
To stay ahead of the reveals this season, pay close attention to the "clue packages" rather than just the singing voices. The producers have become much better at using vocal filters and "red herring" clues to distract you from the obvious. If you want to guess correctly, look at the background items in the animated clips—that's usually where the real identity is hidden.