The Masked Singer has just unveiled its season 7 winner, as reported by People, but fans are already looking ahead to the next season of the innovative celeb-filled singing competition. The best thing about The Masked Singer is that fans get to witness a side of celebrities they rarely see beyond their scripted roles.
With season 8 already confirmed (per Deadline), fans are curious which celebs are planning to take the stage next. So far, none of these famous superstars have appeared on FOX’s hit show. Any number of these actors would make for an amusing, entertaining, and fun season 8 of this wacky mystery-singing contest.
Emma Thompson
Most known for her impressive movie repertoire, Emma Thomson is also a natural singer and gifted actress. She has lent her voice to Sweeney Todd in Concert, Saving Mr. Banks, and Pixar’s Brave. In Disney’s Beauty and the Beast (2017), she sang the title song and cast ensembles.
Whenever Thompson graces screens, fans are in for a delightful show. As an anonymous contestant, she’ll have the opportunity to win the coveted Golden Mask. It’s difficult to imagine anyone would terribly mind coming in second place when they’re up against this dame.
Robert Downey Jr.
Most people know him as the genius, billionaire, playboy, philanthropist Tony Stark. Before Robert Downey Jr. joined the MCU, he was Dan Dark in The Singing Detective, an American musical crime comedy film. In 2004, RDJ launched his only album (The Futurist) featuring ten songs.
Even though it’s rare to hear him singing recently, Downey’s captivating raspy voice is soothing. He would be sure to lull the audience into dazed contentment. As for stage presence, no one is quite like him: RDJ owns the floor whenever he steps onto it.
Kristen Bell
This star shot to international fame from Disney’s critically acclaimed Frozen and its sequel, and in both movies, Kristen Bell was on par with the other talented professional singers! Her prowess shouldn’t come as a shock since she briefly studied musical theater at the Tisch School of the Arts.
In an interview with Yahoo! Movies, Bell disclosed, “I grew up studying opera and sang in solo and ensemble competitions instead of playing a sport.” That tidbit, combined with her warm and effusive nature, should ensure her spot in at least The Masked Singer’s final!
Andrew Garfield
Those who have seen Tick, Tick... BOOM! were probably shocked to find out Andrew Garfield can sing. According to Screen Daily, the former Spider-Man only took formal lessons when Lin Manuel Miranda approached him for the role of Jonathan Larson.
Garfield is no stranger to costumes that conceal his identity; singing as a mascot should be no issue. He is also a master with accents, so much so that no matter if he sang an American country song or a British ballad, audience members would be hard-pressed to know for sure who he is until his unveiling.
Lily James
Besides a starring role in Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again, British actress Lily James hasn't had much opportunity to show off her singing skills. But, those who have seen the Mamma Mia sequel know she has gorgeous soprano vocals which are shown off in some of Here We Go Again's best songs.
The Masked Singer could help raise her popularity in the United States because it’s a show enjoyed by a wide audience. Not only could her vocal talent carry her through the rounds, but James also has a charming stage presence. Her sweet and personable vibes would mark her as a strong opponent the longer she’s in the running.
Ice-T
Not to be confused with the quenching summertime beverage, Ice-T has been in the music industry for over three decades. Currently, he plays the gruff but loyal Odafin Tutola, who is not a singing detective in the illustrious Law and Order franchise.
Even if his character doesn’t bust out the beats, Ice-T is undoubtedly capable. As luck would have it, six rappers have been contestants on The Masked Singer, and half of them made it to the finals. Fans wonder if Ice-T could follow in their lead. For now, the musician/actor plans to stay with the Special Victims crime drama.
Kerry Washington
It’s no secret that Kerry Washington has a set of golden pipes, and she sometimes showcases her talent in interviews and specials. Although she is most known for TV series, Washington participated in musical theater during high school and college.
Recently, Washington has faded from the public eye, so an appearance on The Masked Singer could be the final boost she needs to step back into major acting roles. If she made it to the finale, it’s difficult to imagine any director turning her down for any role when she has acting talent and beautiful vocals to boot!
James Corden
Since he started Carpool Karaoke, fans know that the former The Late Late Show host can sing with the best of them. Before he was famous, James Corden paid his dues in the theater. He only had small comedy and film gigs for a while, but eventually, these roles led him to a 2012 Tony Award.
Corden’s sharp comedic wit and entertaining personality would give him an edge with fans. If he ditches his British accent when speaking, the judges and fans would have a tough time nailing down his identity!
Emilia Clarke
Game of Thrones star Emilia Clarke cut her chops on stage throughout her childhood. She studied acting at the prestigious Drama Centre London during her university years. Keen fans know that Clarke has appeared on Broadway, starring as Holly Golightly in Breakfast at Tiffany’s.
Clarke’s hidden talents are playing some piano, flute, and guitar, but she specializes in alto, ballads, blues, and jazz singing. Her singing abilities were even displayed in Last Christmas. It would be fascinating to watch her flourish with her many musical gifts on a show like The Masked Singer.
Blake Shelton
In some ways, The Voice and The Masked Singer have commonalities: the judges cannot see the contestants in both auditions. But, rarely in these reality show competitions are the tables turned! Rather than assess the talent, Blake Shelton could be one of the contestants.
Although everyone knows Shelton as one of America’s top country musicians, singing incognito would give him the opportunity to branch out. If he lost his twang, the judges and audience would be kept guessing who was behind the strong vocals. When donning the mask, Shelton could sing anything from rock to folk.