J'Something, Sithelo Shozi, Somizi Mhlongo and Skhumba Hlophe return as judges for the third season of 'The Masked Singer South Africa', while Mpho Popps returns as the host.
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After two seasons packed with surprise reveals, outrageous costumes and plenty of detective work from viewers at home, “The Masked Singer South Africa” is returning for a third season on Saturday, July 4.
The hit reality singing competition first aired its first two successful seasons on S3 (formerly known as SABC3).
This time around, the show will air on its new home, SABC2, where 16 celebrities will once again take to the stage disguised in head-to-toe theatrical costumes while trying to keep their identities a secret.
The challenge remains the same: competitors are expected to impress audiences with their performances while making sure nobody figures out who’s behind the mask.
According to the show’s producers, season three promises bigger productions, more clues and some of the biggest celebrity reveals the series has seen so far.
“Expect the wow factor that made ‘The Masked Singer South Africa’ the talk of the town, but multiply it by at least three. It’s going to be wild,” said Rose and Oaks Media co-founder and CEO, Anele Mdoda.
“You won’t believe your eyes when the personalities behind the Masks are revealed. We’re talking mega-mega stars. And the Masks themselves are absolutely out of this world. Think glitz, glamour and extravagance on an epic scale.”
Returning as the host to guide viewers through the chaos is comedian and television personality Mpho Popps.
The detective panel also remains unchanged, with media personalities Somizi Mhlongo, Skhumba Hlophe, Sithelo Shozi and musician J’Something returning to crack clues and try to uncover the famous faces hiding beneath the costumes.
Over the past two seasons, the show has delivered some memorable reveals. Singer Holly Rey walked away with the Golden Mask Trophy in season one as Lollipop, while actor Warren Masemola claimed the title in season two as the fan-favourite Giraffe.
The series has also featured an impressive list of celebrities over the years, including UFC champion Dricus du Plessis, former Miss South Africa Shudufhadzo Musida, football legend Doctor Khumalo, former Springbok captain Victor Matfield, journalist Devi Sankaree Govender, Maps Maponyane, Boity Thulo and Jessica Nkosi.
With a stellar track record, viewers online are already speculating about which stars could be hiding behind this season’s masks.
Channel Robyn Verweij, SABC2 acting channel head, believes the move to the public broadcaster will introduce the show to an even wider audience.
“With The Masked Singer South Africa’s irresistibly entertaining format, high-profile personalities and proven ability to charm viewers of all ages, SABC2 is the perfect home for season 3.
“It’s set to be another massive hit, with entire families putting their theories about the Masks to the test from the comfort of their couches,” she said.
∎ Season three of “The Masked Singer South Africa” premieres on Saturday, July 4, at 7pm on SABC2.