Rita Ora replaced on The Masked Singer UK by huge ITV star-Meghna Amin-Entertainment – Metro

Rita Ora has been replaced on The Masked Singer judging panel, with Maya Jama now taking her spot.

The Hot Right Now singer, 33, joined the ITV competition in 2020, but moved over to the US version last year, taking over from Nicole Scherzinger.

Reports later emerged that Rita had quit the British programme, with Love Island host Maya now confirmed to be taking over.

The 30-year-old joins Mo Gilligan, Davina McCall, Jonathan Ross, who all resume their celebrity detective roles, as well as host Joel Dommett.

She said: ‘I’m such a Masked Singer fan, so joining the panel alongside Davina, Jonathan, and Mo—and of course working with Joel—is going to be so much fun!

‘I can’t wait to figure out who’s underneath all those incredible costumes, vibe to their performances, and get front-row seats to the unmaskings.

‘I’ve watched the show for a long time, so I’m definitely bringing my A-game to the panel!’

Rita Ora has been replaced on The Masked Singer UK (Picture: ITV)

Maya Jama will be taking over (Picture: Dave Benett/Getty Images for Gordon’s Premium Pink)

Katie Rawcliffe, Head of Entertainment & Daytime Commissioning, ITV said: ‘The Masked Singer is back and promises to kick off 2025 with a bang. TV’s favourite guessing game welcomes the sensational Maya Jama who will be joining our expert detectives, Jonathan Ross, Davina McCall and Mo Gilligan all alongside Joel Dommett. We can’t wait.’

Daniel Nettleton and Derek McLean, Co-Founders of production company Bandicoot TV added: ‘When we decided to add a bombshell to the panel, we knew we need not look any further than Maya.

‘She might be a style icon and fashion magazine cover girl, but when it comes to music, she’s an absolute nerd, which might help her solve the clues as our newest celebrity detective. We are delighted to welcome her to the Masked Singer family.’

The Love Island host will join the 2025 panel (Picture: Jonathan Hordle/ITV/Shutterstock)

Rita has yet to address the news, though it was reported she quit the show earlier this week after scheduling issues.

When she joined the US show last year she spoke about her excitement, telling EW: ‘I just felt like a 100% [yes], because I already knew the show so well, and I just love it and I love the excitement of it.’

When asked if she would return beyond this season she added she ‘would love’ to.

‘I’ve had such a great experience, and yeah, who knows? I’m really grateful that they have me on the show. I love it. It’s so fun.’

Rita joined the US version of The Masked Singer last year (Picture: FOX/Pete Dadds)

The last season of The Masked Singer UK saw Danny Jones crowned winner, after being disguised as Piranha, after competing against the likes of Lorraine Kelly and The Last Leg’s Alex Brooker.

The Masked Dancer meanwhile has reportedly been ‘axed’ after struggling to compete with Strictly Come Dancing.

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