The highly anticipated Season 14 of "The Masked Singer" launched with an eventful two-hour premiere, revealing the first celebrity contestant to be unmasked. Baseball icon David Ortiz, recognized by fans as Big Papi, was the star behind the "Googly Eyes" costume, performing with an unexpected flair that both surprised and entertained the audience and judging panel. This initial reveal has ignited excitement for what promises to be another thrilling season filled with mystery and musical talent.
Celebrity Reveal Kicks Off "The Masked Singer" Season 14
On the evening of January 7, 2026, the stage of "The Masked Singer" lit up for its 14th season premiere, delivering an immediate shocker. The enigmatic contestant known as "Googly Eyes" performed a lively rendition of "Turn Down for What" by DJ Snake and Lil Jon. Despite the elaborate disguise, keen-eyed panelist Ken Jeong accurately identified the hidden celebrity as none other than David Ortiz, the legendary Boston Red Sox slugger. Fellow judges Jenny McCarthy-Wahlberg, Robin Thicke, and Rita Ora offered their own theories, naming Derek Jeter, Pedro Martinez, and Manny Ramirez, respectively, showcasing the ongoing challenge of guessing the stars beneath the costumes.
The two-hour opening episode, marking the show's return after a fall hiatus, also introduced a new element: "America's Insider," featuring social media personality Kylie Cantrall. Cantrall, while in costume for viewers, will offer exclusive behind-the-scenes insights, adding another layer of intrigue to the competition. The season promises a diverse lineup of themed episodes, including tributes to "Star Trek," "Clueless," "Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles," and "The Twilight Saga," along with special nights dedicated to "Fear Factor" and "Ozzfest." A total of 18 masked celebrities are set to compete this season, collectively boasting an impressive career history, including numerous record sales, awards, and nominations across various entertainment platforms. The premiere showcased performances from Galaxy Girl, Handyman, Pugcasso, Queen Corgi, Scarab, Croissants, Snow Cone, Stingray, Googly Eyes, and Cat Witch, with Googly Eyes and Croissants landing in the bottom two, ultimately leading to Ortiz's unmasking.
The thrill of "The Masked Singer" lies not just in the musical performances but in the captivating journey of uncovering the identities of beloved celebrities. David Ortiz's participation and early unmasking highlight the show's ability to draw big names from diverse fields, proving that talent and a sense of fun can be found in the most unexpected places. It's a reminder that beneath the glitz and costumes, there's always a compelling story and an opportunity for stars to showcase a different side of themselves.