‘The Masked Singer’ Season 12 Premiere Reveals Identity of Leaf Sheep: Here Is the Celebrity Under the Costume

As I ponder upon the stories of these masked performers, it strikes me how their lives have mirrored the ebb and flow of the ocean waves. Showbird, with her humble beginnings and unexpected rise to stardom, reminds us of the unpredictable tides that life often brings. The Ship, on the other hand, sailed through the stormy seas of fame, losing control at times, but ultimately finding her way back to shore – just like a true mariner would!

⚠️ Caution: Information below pertains to the premiere episode of Season 12, titled “Who Can It Be Now?” from the TV show “The Masked Singer,” that aired on Fox on September 25.

John Elway, being a singer, is surprisingly known for his exceptional skills as a football player. Known for his prowess on the gridiron and winning two Super Bowl titles (XXXII and XXXIII) with the Denver Broncos, he recently made headlines by being unveiled as the celebrity contestant on “The Masked Singer” during its Season 12 premiere on Wednesday evening.

In the game show Leaf Sheep, Ken Jeong correctly identified Elway as his pick, while Jenny McCarthy-Wahlberg mistakenly thought it was another NFL legend, Tom Brady. Robin Thicke chose Troy Aikman in his football selection, and Rita Ora incorrectly guessed Billy Bob Thornton instead.

Elway performed Tim McGraw’s hit song “I Like It, I Love It.” Before his act, he spoke in a pre-recorded voiceover as the Leaf Sheep, sharing that he’s not as spry these days. However, he reminded everyone of his glory days when he created quite a stir. He made headlines, dominated the country music charts, and even brought back a struggling franchise. Now, he’s here to keep the fun going.

John Elway as Leaf Sheep is the first celebrity unmasked on “The Masked Singer” this season.

Season 12 opened with William Shatner (Season 8’s “Knight) introducing the show. “186 celebrities, over 11 seasons of ‘The Masked Singer.’ The only show that keeps you guessing, wondering, begging, to know, Who Could It Be Now?’” From there, panelist Rita Ora sang a remixed version of Men At Work’s “Who Can It Be Now?”

For Season 12, the hosts are once again Nick Cannon, with Jenny McCarthy Wahlberg, Ken Jeong, and Robin Thicke as panelists. Once more, Ora will be at the desk, stepping in for Nicole Scherzinger for the second year running.

Season 12 of ‘The Masked Singer’ features various themed episodes. These include celebrations for Mattel’s Barbie, as it turns 65, and the film ‘Footloose’, which is 40 years old. Miley Cyrus will have an episode dedicated to her music, and there’s a new event called ‘Who Are You Fest’, showcasing popular festival lineups’ tunes. Additionally, expect ‘Sports Night’ and a ’60s Night’. Returning themes are ‘Soundtrack of My Life’ and ‘Thanksgiving Night.’

This year, hints will be artfully integrated into costumes, song selections, and key performance instances. Moreover, our fifteen star competitors will be championed by a “Star-studded Masked Advocate,” composed of past participants such as Dick Van Dyke from Season 9’s Gnome role, Jewel who won in Season 6 as the Queen of Hearts, Ne-yo victorious in Season 10 as the Cow, and DeMarcus Ware from Season 11’s Koala.

Season 12 features 15 contestants performing in new costumes including “Ship,” “Leaf Sheep,” “Woodpecker,” “Chess Piece,” “Bluebell,” “Buffalo,” “Showbird,” “Dust Bunny,” “Goo,” “Strawberry Shortcake” and more.

Here were the performances on Wednesday’s Episode 1, “Season Premiere: Who Can It Be Now?”:

Buffalo

Song: “(I Just) Died In Your Arms,” by Cutting Crew

Panel guesses: B2K, Earth Wind and Fire, 98 Degrees

Introduced by Masked Ambassador: Nick Lachey (Piglet, Season 5)

Ambassador’s Excited Speech: “I’m thrilled to join this distinguished team of Masked Singer ambassadors, here to support our talented contestants. Personally, I’m rooting for the Buffalo. Born in humble pastures, it faced numerous hardships. It slept in insect-infested quarters at night and rehearsed at bus stops during the day.

Personally Speaking: “Indeed, Piglet, yet with a grand opportunity knocking, I seized the moment to step into the limelight. This journey led me across continents, treading on paths of fame, and gracing two iconic television series. Striking gold, I’d be remiss not to acknowledge the invaluable support that helped me reach this pinnacle.

“Buffalo, you truly are a gem for our nation! You’ve always been the star attraction at my grand Super Bowl gatherings. I’m confident that you’ll shine brightly among the crowd this upcoming season.

Gift Clue: Crown.

Woodpecker

Song: “Flowers,” by Miley Cyrus

Panel guesses: Willow Smith, Cardi B, Halle Bailey, Keke Palmer

Introduced by Masked Ambassador: Jenifer Lewis (Miss Cleocatra, Season 11)

As the seasoned movie critic I am, let me tell you that this enigmatic character left quite an impression during Season 11. Now, I have some exclusive intel on someone I’ve known since her debut. She goes by the name of Woodpecker, and she’s been labeled a mogul, a powerful CEO, even boasting friendships with none other than Beyoncé! This woman is indeed a force to be reckoned with.

Woodpecker voiceover: “Well, that’s quite a challenge. I prefer not to dwell on it. All I’m saying is, only the doors you actively approach will open. So, I knock on every door. And here I am, pursuing the title of youngest billionaire. I want to show the world that there’s nothing I can’t achieve. That’s why I’m here, with my singing and dancing, ready for whatever comes next!

More Ambassador: “I believe in you 100 percent. Make Auntie Jen proud!”

Gift Clue: “World Record.”

Leaf Sheep

Song: “I Like It, I Love It,” by Tim McGraw

Panel guesses: Tom Brady, John Elway, Troy Aikman

Introduced by Masked Ambassador: Demarcus Ware (Koala, Season 11)

Narrator’s voice: “Maintaining anonymity proved quite the challenge. Yet, there’s someone I trust with this task – the Greatest of All Time… or is that a reference to a sheep?

“I am Leaf Sheep, though you might be puzzled at the moment, as I was just a few days ago. But believe it or not, Leaf Sheep is indeed a genuine character. A quick search will confirm that! In my heyday, I was quite the sensation, making waves, grabbing headlines, topping the charts, and even breathing new life into a beloved franchise. Now, I may be a bit slow these days, but my aim remains the same: to keep the fun times rolling!

Friendly Advice: “Given our shared connections, I believe your best times are yet to come. Wishing you success in all your future endeavors.

Gift Clue: “Hall of Fame” trophy.

Showbird

Song: “Just Fine,” by Mary J. Blige

Panel guesses: Jennifer Hudson, Taraji P. Henson, Kerry Washington

Introduced by Masked Ambassador: Joel McHale (Previous guest panelist)

Ambassador voiceover: “I want to introduce you to a good friend, it’s Showbird, everyone.”

Showbird voiceover: “To be honest, I’m just as perplexed as you are. I didn’t envision this for myself at all. I was more of a tomboy in my youth and quite the bookworm too – Legos, Comic-Cons, the whole nine yards. I thought I’d maintain a simpler, less flashy lifestyle. More subtle. Never in my wildest dreams did I think I’d be baring my soul for some of the biggest blockbuster films out there. Unlike Joel here.

As a movie lover, I can’t help but chuckle at the accuracy of your words. A tinge of envy creeps in, but don’t let that worry you. You might find yourself in unfamiliar territory now, but rest assured, you’ll navigate it effortlessly.

Gift Clue: Popcorn.

The Ship

Song: “Pompeii,” by Bastille

Panel guesses: Cyndi Lauper, Joan Osbourne, Enya, Sarah McLachlan

Introduced by Masked Ambassador: Jewel (Queen of Hearts, Season 6)

“As I delved deeper into the contest, I found myself amazed by its hidden layers. It’s a discovery I believe would greatly benefit a cherished companion of mine – the ship.”>

The Ship’s Narration: “I understand how swiftly circumstances can alter. From tempestuous to tranquil in an instant. My existence has mirrored this pattern. My professional journey gained momentum at a remarkable pace. I achieved numerous successes, made history, but eventually lost my bearings. I felt adrift and forgotten at times. It’s taken me years to navigate back to solid ground. But now, I have the career I’ve always desired. And that’s what makes being here so terrifying. Because once more, I find myself in unfamiliar territories.

“I strongly suggest you go for it. It’s about facing your fears directly, much like the challenges we faced back then. I am confident that by doing so, you will prove to be unstoppable.

Gift Clue: Sparkly cowboy hat.

Previous performances featured Vanessa Hudgens, who claimed the Season 11 title as Goldfish, defeating Scott Porter’s Gumball. Other acts included Thelma Houston as Clock, Chrissy Metz as Poodle Moth, Corey Feldman as Seal, and a duo of Clay Aiken and Ruben Studdard as Beets. Also on stage were Jenifer Lewis as Miss Cleocatra, Kate Flannery as Starfish, Charlie Wilson as Ugly Sweater, DeMarcus Ware as Koala, Colton Underwood as Love Bird, Sisqó as Lizard, Billy Bush as Sir Lion, Joe Bastianich as Spaghetti & Meatballs, Savannah Chrisley as Afghan Hound, and Kevin Hart as Book.

The TV show ‘The Masked Singer’ originates from Fox Alternative Entertainment. Rosie Seitchik, Craig Plestis and Cannon are the show’s executive producers, with Seitchik also serving as the showrunner. This series is based on a format originally created by Mun Hwa Broadcasting Corp in South Korea.

2024-09-26 04:20