T-Pain is slated to make his return to The Masked Singer for season 3 by appearing as a guest judge. After winning season 1 of the hit reality singing competition show and appearing as a guest panelist during the 2nd season, it is no surprise the producers of the show have invited him back to help figure out the clues for season 3's masked stars.
The recording artist quickly became a fan favorite when he competed as an adorable Monster on the first season of The Masked Singer. Singing songs from various genres, including "Stay with Me" by Sam Smith, "American Woman" by Lenny Kravitz, and "Don't Stop Me Know" by Queen, the king of autotune won over millions of hearts with his naturally soulful voice. Each week he continually surprised judges, audience members and viewers at home that he was truly gifted, leading him to ultimately take home the winning title.
Guest judges are not unfamiliar territory for the unique show. Past guests from previous seasons include comedians Joel McHale, J.B.Smoove, Kenan Thompson, Anthony Anderson, and Triumph the Insult Comic Dog. Due to the shows growing popularity and ratings more celebrities may continue to join in the guessing, some from even behind the mask, just like the king of autotune. Aside from T-Pain joining resident judges, comedian Ken Jeong, singer-songwriter Robin Thicke, recording artist Nicole Scherzinger and television personality Jenny McCarthy Wahlberg, Entertainment Weekly exclusively announced comedian and actors Gabriel Iglesias and Will Arnett will also be joining as guest panelists for this season.
For the past two episodes, the judges have been joined by Academy Award winner Jamie Foxx, who chimed in for the season premiere, and actor and comedian Jason Biggs came in as a guest for the second episode. Leah Remini was the latest judge to appear on the Valentine's Day-themed episode.
In a competition that involves figuring out the hidden identities of celebrities, guest judges are a great feature for The Masked Singer. Their input helps narrow down clues and in some cases, their commentary adds more entertainment for viewers such as the banter between Ken Jeong and Joe McHale. It is even more effective to bring back the previous winner T-Pain. T-Pain, having the knowledge and experience of the first-ever winner, being on judging panel can be useful in guessing the identities of the performers. It also provides a nostalgic feeling for both panelists and viewers. Adding a fifth panelist has proven to be successful for the network. Hopefully, Fox will bring back the winner of season 2, Wayne Brady.
The Masked Singer airs Wednesdays at 8pm EST on Fox.
Source: EW