The Masked Singer: Clues about each contestant from every episode

The Masked Singer is back with season 2, and this time around the clues are even harder. Each week, put your best detective hat on to analyze all the clue packages and on-stage hints to figure out which celebrity is behind the mask. In the premiere, host Nick Cannon hinted that between the contestants there are “42 Grammy nods, 140 films, 35 no. 1 hits, 21 platinum records, and 22 Broadway shows” (and eight divorces, but take that with a grain of salt). Two of Time magazine’s most influential figures are contestants as well.

EW has compiled a master list of clues for each contestant, so check back here during each episode for updates, and guess along with us. And remember — a clue can be right on the mark or meant to throw viewers off, so stay sharp.

Butterfly

Clue package:

Has been waiting for “metamorphosis” this past year
Connections to London: “I’m terrified of the one place I used to call home”
Also supporting the London theme: pictures of Big Ben and a double-decker bus
Religious imagery: baptism, stained glass, a cross, “I’m here to take you to church, can I get an amen?”
London seen in the background (again)
“At the height of my career, I had everyone saying my name, but when I tried to spread my wings, I lost flight”
Mentioned rumors that heavily affected her life: “Everyone had something to say”
Seen looking in the mirror, which had cut-out words like “kind,” “not today Satan,” “feel,” “you can do it,” “please stop showing me memories of my ex” and more phrases on it
“As the butterfly, I can be any age, color, voice, or genre. No one can put me in a net or clip my wings ever again”
“Being the Butterfly has reignited a love I’ve had since I was 7 years old”
Referenced a choir and “joyful noise” — more church references
A nurse’s hat is shown, as is a certificate that says “car salesman of the year”

This “bleeding love” has given her the “highest of highs” — a reference to Leona Lewis’ song?
A newspaper with the headline “Brit Award Winner Fires It Up” shown
Said she’s “used to sharing the stage with giants,” as a football is shown on the screen
A teapot with “Hot! 100 degrees” tag on it is shown
A Broadway playbill can also be seen
Another possible reference to football is made when she said, “This metamorphosis has allowed me to tackle some of my deepest insecurities”
Made several references to beginning again

On stage:

Slender frame
Female singing voice, belted out “Bang Bang” by Jessie J and Ariana Grande
Has (or can mimic) a Southern accent: “Bless your heart … I’ve got a lot of soul in these wings”
Second solo performance: Sang “Livin’ On a Prayer” by Bon Jovi
Revealed that there was a mishap during rehearsals and she got electrocuted. Joked she “didn’t want to be dead on a prayer”
“I was good in school, but a rebel outside of school” and got a butterfly tattoo
Third solo performance: Sang “Don’t Know Why” by Norah Jones
Her item was a forensics kit, of which she said, “I once had the chance to choose life or death”
Fourth solo performance: “Sorry Not Sorry” by Demi Lovato
“Hearing all of your compliments, I am brought to tears after every performance because you guys have helped to take away the insecurities I have about my voice.”

Judges’ guesses: Cara Delevingne, Fantasia, Mel B, Diana Ross, Twiggy, Leona Lewis, Michelle Williams, Norah Jones, Monica, Kerry Washington

Update: Butterfly was eliminated on Dec. 4. Read our exit interview to learn who was under the mask.

Egg

Clue package:

Snowy imagery, such as the snowglobe
Swan themes: Swan Lake music, stuffed swan animal
Potential figure skater: “You might figure that coming to The Masked Singer is a bit of a leap for me”
Spent years “being on top of the pyramid”
Sketches of dress design and skateboard
“I’m going for the gold”

On stage:

Male singing voice, performed Lady Gaga’s “Just Dance”

Judges’ guesses: Johnny Weir, Adam Rippon, Jonathan Van Ness, Christian Siriano

Update: Egg was eliminated in the show’s premiere. Read our recap to learn their identity.

Thingamajig

Clue package:

Rapped his clues
“I’m a gentle giant”
Magic themes: Has a “magic case” with wings and pulled out scarves and feathers
Puzzle piece imagery: “Puzzling question comes to mind”
Loves singing but “you may think that’s not my thing”
“I’m more than fashion shoots and a dream”
Image of sneakers
The number 4 on top of a cupcake
“All the stars led to this gig”
Revealed that singing has always been his first love
Three stuffed dolls shown
“Don’t run with the bulls” — a reference to the Chicago Bulls, maybe?
Said a “Thingamajig’s real magic comes from within” as a magic wand and an American flag is shown
Described himself as “a big softie” who wears his heart on his sleeve
After performing, likes to “break bread with the homies”
A table is shown with gummy worms, bowties, watermelon, and men’s black dress shoes on top
Said his dad taught him to “serenade the ladies”
The black shoes are shown being dipped into some sort of brown sauce or gravy
Dedicated the performance to his dad
“In my line of work, I’m used to hustling every day”

“If you really want something in life, you gotta commit to it,” he said as he’s shown in a marriage ceremony to himself. He added, “I’ve got to be my own number one right now.” So, he’s single?
Said he’d suffered a “setback” recently
A card is shown that is addressed to “My love” from “Maryland”
Seen holding a guitar
MVP signs shown, as are sunflowers
“There’s no time to get crabby” — another Maryland clue
Said this year had “a lot of obstacles and adversity”
“My parents came here with nothing, and they taught me that the key to the American dream is hard work”
A sign of the Taurus constellation is shown, as is a diploma for Kinesiology

On stage:

Appears even taller than host Nick Cannon, who said he’s 6’1″
Male singing voice, sang “Easy” by the Commodores
Second solo performance: Sang “Rainbow” by Kacey Musgraves
Judges remarked that all of the clues point to him being an athlete but his voice says otherwise
“My darkest moment was when I went to rehab”
Third solo performance: Sang “Ain’t Too Proud to Beg” by The Temptations
His item from home is an American Sign Language dictionary, saying “This book taught me to communicate with others”
Fourth solo performance: “Haven’t Met You Yet” by Michael Buble
“Nicole, what’s your perfect date? Cuz I want to start planning ahead.”
Fifth solo performance: Sang “Ordinary People” by John Legend
Told the judges: “I collaborated with the same artists as one of you”
Sixth solo performance: Sang “Winter Wonderland” by Bing Crosby
His gift to the judges was Indiana Jones’ iconic hat and whip. His clue: “While I am a massive movie buff, this clue involves a little more… digging.”

Judges’ guesses: Michael Strahan, Steph Curry, Dennis Rodman, LeBron James, Dwight Howard, Montell Jordan, Tony Parker, Ronnie DeVoe, Brian McKnight, John Legend, Markelle Fultz, Victor Oladipo

Update: Thingamajig was eliminated on Dec. 11. Read our exit interview to learn who was under the mask.

leSkeleton

Clue package:

Chose skeleton because “I have no fear of death”
Has “been around the block a few times, but I’m far from dead”
Maybe not known for leading roles: “I always provided support,” but “tired of playing second fiddle,” “I finally get that spotlight all to myself”
References to Saturday Night Live catchphrases: “Party on dudes,” “Wild and crazy party,” along with images of Christmas sweaters
“You see amigos, my life has been pretty great, but sometimes it feels like joint custody and I’m the deadbeat dad who only gets the kids on the weekend”
“The long and short of it is, ever since childhood, I felt overshadowed”
Shown as a puppet master as he says “being in the background let me be more instrumental in orchestrating those around me” — more references to instruments and not being in the main spotlight

On stage:

Appears shorter in stature
Male voice, performed Sugarhill Gang’s “Rapper’s Delight”
Did comedic bits on stage
Second solo performance: Sang “Are You Gonna Be My Girl” by Jet
“I was once inducted into the National Black Sports and Entertainment Hall of Fame”

Judges’ guesses: Jon Cryer, Nathan Lane, Martin Short, Dana Carvey, Teller, Paul Shaffer

Update: Skeleton was eliminated on Oct. 16. Read our exit interview to find out who it was.

Ladybug

Clue package:

TV game show set: “Welcome to spin your wheel”
“After a lifetime of drama, I can really use a little love and a lot of luck”
Appeared to be Brady Bunch-like grid with pictures of turkey leg, pumpkin, picture of a bridge, stuffed puppy toy, gavel, scorpion, skull, police car, and baseball bat
“Born into limelight,” had to keep track of “every piece of gossip and family feud”
Couldn’t win no matter how much they tried
The “chance to be anonymous” makes them feel like they won “a prize”
Wants to perform without “fear of being judged”
“[The show] reminds me of when I was growing up, where everything on the outside looked rosy, but in reality, on the inside, my world was completely upside down”
A card denoting “3 of Cups,” is shown, as is a trophy with the words “Best Host” on it
A random lime, a cross, and a sparkly high heel shoe also appear
“I get to reconnect with an old love and the pieces of me” — could it be a reference to the Ashlee Simpson song of the same name?
Said she wants to celebrate who she is: rainbow-colored scarves, tambourines, candles, a game of Jacks, disco ball cups all shown

“For years I convinced myself I wasn’t good enough, whether in my career, in my relationships, or in my family,” she said, as a four of clubs is flashed on screen
Ladybug is shown doing makeup, and more references to fashion are made
Said she hopes the judges “L-O-V-E” her performance — possibly a reference to the Ashlee Simpson song

On stage:

Female singing voice, sang Bonnie Tyler’s “Holding Out for a Hero”
Also used an exaggerated Southern accent, said they’ve “been through so much in my life”
Second solo performance: Sang “Juice” by Lizzo
“The queens of the world taught me how to be a lady”
Third solo performance: Sang “Youngblood” by 5 Seconds of Summer
Her revealing item is a golf cart with an “All Access” sign on it, of which she teased, “In my youth, I wasn’t afraid to get a little mud on my tires”

Judges’ guesses: Lily Collins, Lindsay Lohan, Willow Smith, Jamie Lynn Spears, Paris Jackson, Ashlee Simpson

Update: Ladybug was eliminated on Nov. 13. Read our exit interview to find out who it was.

Rottweiler

Clue package:

“Gotta look your best,” getting groomed, wearing gold chain
Football player or actor who played one? “Touched a pigskin under the Friday night lights”
Image of a record player
“Being a hungry competitor is actually how I rose to fame, it happened almost overnight” with shot of a bouquet of blue roses
Fantasy champion ring
Bitten by a Rottweiler as a kid
Wants to show “doubters it’s not over”
Bowtie is blinged out
“[The show] showed me that I am capable of succeeding on my own, and I want it that way” — a reference to The Backstreet Boys perhaps
Sports trophies and ribbons shown
“Despite being a humble pup, I knew early on I was meant to be a star,” he said, as he draws a picture of himself with angel wings and a halo
Started out in musical theater and makeup
Dog boxes shown with the names Rottweiler, Kale, Carolina, and Lil’ Pete
A gold watch is shown prominently
“I didn’t take the conventional route to stardom,” he shared, as he showed off a vacuum cleaner and is seen cleaning up a room
A North Carolina flag is shown

Mentioned “on screen” opportunities as he is shown looking at the outline of a body, like one you might see on a crime show
Wore a pair of gloves in the package that said “Boxing Day” on them
A grill with the word “platinum” is shown — do they have a platinum-certified record, maybe?
“Everything is zen” — could be a reference to the Bush song “Everything Zen”
A September 2019 calendar page is seen with the word September circled
Four trophies are seen briefly on screen
More references to meditation and being “zen”
A Baby Bjorn shown
A shallow reference is made — prompting Robin to guess Bradley Cooper
Shown doing yoga
Said “This time of year, I’m always home with my family, so it’s hard being away and keeping this all a secret”
A present addressed to “Cadence” is shown
A passport is also shown
“We don’t have a dog now, but I am pretty sure this will make us get one”
A “tweet” from Rottweiler read: “This dog’s luck wasn’t great against a cat, but I won’t lose to a flamingo or a fox. #FueledToWin”
Said “My big break happened when I was just a pup, and I never really got a say in defining who I was”

Talked about reinventing himself: “It’s been impossible to change the way people see me, until now. Here, I’ve been given the most amazing opportunity to break that mold.”

On stage:

Male singing voice, sang “Maneater” by Hall & Oates
Said they’re “loyal” and have a “wait and see attitude”
Second solo performance: Sang “Love Runs Out” by OneRepublic
“My heroes growing up were Bruce Lee and Boyz II Men”
Third solo performance: Sang “Castle on a Hill” by Ed Sheeran
His revealing item is a picture he drew of Triumph the Insult Comic Dog, the guest judge that episode, saying, “I love you so much, Triumph, that I drew this for you hoping that you would sign it for a fellow pup, or your son”
Fourth solo performance: Sang “Grenade” by Bruno Mars
“Your compliments are so amazing, I feel like they’re directed to someone better than me. This whole experience has helped me to believe in myself more than I ever have.”
Fifth solo performance: Sang “Someone You Loved” by Lewis Capaldi
Told the judges: “I have been on the same list as one of you, and it was not PEOPLE’s Sexiest Man Alive”
Sixth solo performance: Sang “Mr. Brightside” by The Killers
His gift to the judges was a handmade holiday card. His clue: “I believe handmade is always better than store-bought, so thank you all for the love. I wrote you a letter.”

Final solo performance: Sang “Alive” by Sia
“I’m just really, really grateful right now. I’m often my own worst enemy, and like most of us I’m finding my true voice, but this experience has brought me so much closer to that. I feel like I’ve already won.”

Judges’ guesses: Russell Wilson, Brian Littrell, Nick Lachey, JC Chasez, Bruno Mars, Kevin Jonas, Patrick Monahan, Gavin DeGraw, Darren Criss, James Franco, Gavin Rossdale, Billie Joe Armstrong, Mario Lopez, Jared Leto, Bow Wow, Arnel Pineda, Dave Franco, Jason Mraz

Tree

Clue package:

Themes about an absence: “I love getting dolled up as your favorite tree, but when the season is over there’s no use for me,” (plus images of public storage); “such a shame that I spent so long in exile”
A one-hit wonder? “I sit wishing the world wouldn’t ignore that I’m more than just one thing that you know me for”
The number 30 is shown prominently in a shot outside the storage unit
Clip of the tree in an older model black and white TV set
Food/baking themes: “I could dish out more talents to make the world smile,” plus images of measuring cups and sugar; “I’m more than an expert in delicious treats, if you recall”
“Like the old entertainers who could do it all, so that’s why I’m here to jazz up my career”
This is their “first live performance”
Seen playing the piano, rockabilly-type music playing
“My dad is a tinsel and my mom is a pom-pom, mix them together it’s a holiday rom-com”
“Growing up they told me to be true to myself, I’ve always been their favorite elf”
“Never made me feel like I was home alone,” she said, as a picture of the White House pops on screen

“Fruit cake” and “YOLO” mentioned
Said the hardest part about “this whole funky thing” is learning to stand on her own
A blank playbill with three pennies on top is shown
She kissed a tree as she said she “works really well with others” — did she win an award for a kiss at some point?
Said being on the show was like “being beamed up into another dimension” — was she in a sci-fi project of some kind?
Referenced “strangers with candy” and being “the new girl at school”
“I’m singing and dancing like no one is watching, not even a smelly cat”
A sign that reads “What Is a Friend” is shown — two back-to-back possible references to Friends
A witch’s hat is shown on screen — is it a Wicked reference?
More references to food are made, with cans of soup shown
The package shows a slumber party, complete with a pillow fight and people brushing each others’ hair
Said she misses working in a collaboration — Robin remarks that Tree must be used to working with a lot of people
References “spirit,” cheerleaders shown with pompoms

On stage:

Female singing voice, sang “High Hopes” by Panic at the Disco
Said “I’m festive and fun, and I like everyone together” and to “have a good time”
Second solo performance: Sang “Think” by Aretha Franklin
“I have been a brand ambassador and it does relate to food”
Third solo performance: Sang “No Excuses” by Meghan Trainor
Tree’s item is a bowl of soup, of which she said, “If it wasn’t for soup, I’m not sure I’d be where I am today”
Fourth solo performance: “Total Eclipse of the Heart” by Bonnie Tyler
“Being the tree is so much fun. I love it. It’s all-consuming though, and I’ve let my other responsibilities fall to the wayside while I’m doing this.”
Fifth solo performance: Sang “The Edge of Glory” by Lady Gaga
Told the judges: “Well, I had shared a stage and a standing O with one of you”

Judges’ guesses: Beverly D’Angelo, Zooey Deschanel, Rachael Ray, Wendi McLendon-Covey, Amy Sedaris, Padma Lakshmi, Molly Shannon, Lauren Graham, Lisa Kudrow, Ana Gasteyer, Nia Vardalos, Megan Mullally, Mariah Carey, Bebe Neuwirth

Update: Tree was eliminated on Dec. 10. Read our exit interview to find out who it was.

Ice Cream

Clue package:

“Every day is cheat day” (cheat codes, perhaps?)
Showed him in a mansion with lots of cash flying around
Growing up “caught flak for doing the things that I liked the most, no one thought I could amount to much, even my mom and dad had their doubts”
“But I believed in my ridiculous dreams, and I turned my fantasy into a reality, I’ve got over a billion reasons to be proud” (could mean billion viewers or followers)
Lots of gold coins shown
They karate-chopped a cement block and do an air-punch
“Used to performing in front of millions,” held up headphones next to their ears
“Being here is a game changer because I’m behind a different kind of mask,” bodyguards wearing emoji masks, throwing cash at Ice Cream, doing backup dances
Wants to take “this competition to the next level”

On stage:

Performed “Old Town Road” by Lil Nas X featuring Billy Ray Cyrus
Said “I’m sweet and everybody loves me”

Judges’ guesses: Rob Dyrdek, Calvin Harris, Snapchat co-creator Evan Spiegel, Marshmello

Update: Ice Cream was eliminated in the show’s premiere. Read our exit interview to learn their identity. (Hint: none of the judges got it.)

Black Widow

Clue package:

“Hide in plain sight, when they strike you know it”
A painting of a peach (are they from Georgia?)
A film slate shown, reference to a “director’s cut of my life” and “deleted scenes”
A crown, “Welcome to my empire”
“More alien than you know me to be”
“I’m here to curl my way to the top and spin a web around the competition to win the golden mask”
Since she was young, had to “embody a squeaky clean image” but never felt that she “fit the part”
Seen knitting a scarf
Has had a career that’s taken on “all different shapes” — a record and a TV is shown
Said she likes that she doesn’t have to pretend on The Masked Singer, because all we know about her is “my voice and my badonkadonk”
Can make herself feel at home anywhere, and had some tips for making a spot feel like home: referenced “dirty” — a possible nod to Christina Aguilera — as well as possibly having homes in Bel Air, and Memphis?
Said one should fill their space with things that “spark joy,” a la Marie Kondo, and “always find time to entertain one’s guests”
Banners with the words “scrub” and “misdemeanor” shown
Referred to herself as a “hot homemaker”

On stage:

Female singing voice, sang Whitney Houston’s “I Wanna Dance With Somebody”
Said “I like to hide until it’s time to feast”
Second solo performance: Sang “Before He Cheats” by Carrie Underwood
Was wearing a sling, remarked that “spiders shouldn’t ride hoverboards”
“I never went to prom, but I pretended to” — someone who performed in the musical The Prom, perhaps?
Third solo performance: Sang “Believe” by Cher
All the singers in this episode were asked to bring something from their own home. Black Widow brought whipped cream and crackers. Said she’s “spun webs around these tasty treats”
Fourth solo performance: Sang “Lady Marmalade” by Patti LaBelle
“When I started this show I was shaking in my feathers, but each performance has helped me build my confidence, and now I feel like I can do anything”

Judges’ guesses: Amber Riley, Yvette Nicole Brown, Sherri Shepherd, Raven-Symoné, Christina Aguilera, Tatyana Ali, Miranda Lambert, Drew Barrymore, Adrienne Bailon, Bella Thorne, Jillian Michaels, Fantasia

Update: Black Widow was eliminated on Nov. 6. Read our exit interview to find out who it was.

Leopard

Clue package:

Taller than 6’1 Cannon
I am adaptable and can survive anywhere
I know what it’s like to be at the top
“Heavy-hitter, no one can catch me”
Reference to tabloids, what they’re wearing and relationships
Showed a clock, and newspaper with the headline “Out of hits, out of time”
Bedroom set with men wearing nightcaps and pillow fighting
Said that after all his years at the top, it was “humbling” to go to the Smack Down last time
Wants to prove he’s a “primetime champion”
“Wasn’t born a winner” and “wasn’t always wanted”
A baby in a basket is shown being left on the doorsteps of a building with 1963 on it — the year Flamingo was born, perhaps?
Men with bunny ears and suits shown, with a newspaper on a table bearing the headline “Finding Your Place”
“I have lived my life in color” and “no matter what the world labels you, it’s never too late to flip the script”
A newspaper is shown with the headline, “Star Strikes a Pose and Wows the Audience.” Another says, “Performer of Slow Jazz Plays the White House,” and still another blared, “R U Gonna Go My Way”

Guitar and violins shown “Tonight I’m reliving my teenage dream by performing like no one is watching, free as can be”
“When I was a teenager, I set myself free for the first time” — did they declare emancipation from their parents, or perhaps he was a foster child?
A picture of four older women is shown
“Whether I’m in New York or Paris, I always try to channel my inner glamazon and champion”
A black baseball bat and a speakerphone with the Australian flag are shown in the background
Seen holding a tennis racket in a tennis-themed package
Showed tofu — are they vegan or vegetarian?
A knocked-over motorcycle is shown, and Robin muses that the person was involved in a motorcycle accident
Made another reference to his kids: “It’s funny. I came here initially so my cubs would think I’m cool”
“My long and storied career began with a nativity play when I was 11 years old”
A record called “Slow Jams,” sheet music for “Brahm’s Lullaby,” and a CD called “Canceled” are shown
Seen holding a snowboard

On stage:

Male sounding voice, sang “Somebody to Love” by Queen
Appeared several inches taller than Cannon
“Hit on” Cannon onstage, said “Leopards can be fierce and yet so divine”
Second solo performance: Sang “Stitches” by Shawn Mendes
“At one point, I was an engineer, but what some of you might not know is that I once served fast food.”
Third solo performance: Sang “Teenage Dream” by Katy Perry
His item was a group of cameras, of which he teased, “I spent most of my life in front of the lens, but I prefer being behind the lens”
Fourth solo performance: Sang “September” by Earth, Wind & Fire
“I want to tell everybody how perfect and exciting it has been playing the Leopard, but how actually shocked my little ones are going to be when they find out it’s me”
Fifth solo performance: Sang “We Are Young” by Fun.
Told the judges: “I was presenting an award on an award show that included one of you, and I was wearing a custom leather outfit.”
Sixth solo performance: Sang “Big Spender” by Shirley Bassey
His gift to the judges was blueprints to a “dream home.” His clue: “Well, as you all know, Nicholas [referring to Canon] and I recently got married. These are the blueprints Nicholas where you and I could be so purrfectly happy.”

Judges’ guesses: Billy Porter, Robbie Williams, Jamie Foxx, RuPaul, Neil Patrick Harris, Bobby Brown, Tyler Perry, Donald Glover, Seal, Alec Baldwin, Eric Benét, Enrique Iglesias, Jeff Goldblum

Update: Leopard was eliminated on Dec. 11. Read our recap to find out who was under the mask.

Flamingo

Clue package:

Pink set
“Zootube channel,” video screen seen onscreen
Boombox, pink belt shown
“I’m gonna let you in on all my tips and tricks” – makeup, life advice, etc
Knows what it’s “like to be trapped in career”
“Here to take control of my DESTINY”
Held a fluorescent tube light
“About time this badass birdie got to show her feathers again”
“Being [on this show] is so dope. It reminds me of when I first started out — I went from hood rat to Hollywood triple threat.”
Seen holding an apple as she talks about her “humble beginnings”
A boombox is shown again, as is an old-timey gas station
Said she was discovered by “a powerful wizard”
After some “highs and lows” she wants to find the passion she used to have
Started off her clue package with the Spanish word “mira,” meaning “look”
Hated the sound of her own voice and had stage fright because of it
“I’ve danced, sung, and acted my way to the top”
A film reel is shown
“I’m so happy, I feel like I’m living in a fantasy,” she said, as a picture of a tropical island is shown

Called her home her “chateau”
Pictures of the Eiffel Tower, Taj Mahal flashed on screen
Spoke Spanish briefly during the package, which featured her at a pool party
Said, “I went from clueless to celebrated” — a reference to the 1995 movie Clueless, maybe?
“Facebook likes” symbols shown
Made references to A Different World and Sister, Sister — two different TV shows they were on, possibly?
Said “I loved nothing more than singing in my church choir growing up, but it was always just a hobby”
Cupcakes with all sorts of arts and craft materials on top of them are shown
A man dribbling a basketball and a man with a stack of pancakes and syrup are featured, as is a man with a cheetah-print suitcase
A “tweet” from Flamingo read: “Hola pups! Flam Flam is getting glam glam before I add more gold to my collection. #LifeInPink”
Said “Just hearing [the judges’] words of encouragement every single week, I’ve been able to break out of the box that I put myself in” — Ken remarks that it’s strange she would feel that way when “she’s clearly a star,” to which Robin notes that maybe she didn’t have success as a solo artist necessarily
More arts and crafts shown

On stage:

Female voice, sang Jonas Brothers’ “Sucker”
“Flamingos are a symbol of very luxurious vacations”
Second solo performance: Sang “Footloose” by Kenny Loggins, with lots of choreography
Judges praised her showstopping (and opening) performance
“When I was a kid, I wanted to be a doctor. I even attended a medical training school.”
Third solo performance: Sang “Never Enough” by Loren Allred from The Greatest Showman
Her item was an NAACP Image Award, of which she shared, “I was tickled pink when I received this award.”
Fourth solo performance: “Sang Lady Marmalade” by Patti LaBelle
Fifth solo performance: Sang “Go Your Own Way” by Fleetwood Mac
Told the judges: “I shared some couch time with one of you in 2013”
Sixth solo performance: Sang “Hallelujah” by Jeff Buckley
Her gift to the judges was a globe with Israel clearly marked on it. Her clue: “I was baptized in Israel”
Final solo performance: Sang “Proud Mary” by Tina Turner
“I was told I would never amount to anything. And even though I’ve doubted myself, I’m determined, I’m hardworking, and I have truly had the time of my life.”

Judges’ guesses: Olivia Jade, Kandi Burruss, Tia Mowry, Ally Brooke, Adrienne Bailon, Fantasia, Pink, Hilary Duff, Jessica Simpson, Sabrina Bryan, Fergie

Panda

FOX

Clue package:

Dedicated clue package to “Papa Bear”
Said that the panda reminded them of their dad’s strength
Jungle/forest theme
Says shyness is a virtue, don’t need to come into the room “banging your chest”
Came from “famous family in the forest”
Loves to sing, other contestants won’t be “a match”
Book with “Cooking Like Momma Does” on it
A bee is shown

On stage:

Lower female voice, sang “Stronger (What Doesn’t Kill You)” by Kelly Clarkson
“I’m lovable but fierce”

Judges’ guesses: Queen Latifah, Ronda Rousey, Martha Stewart, Serena Williams

Update: Panda was eliminated on Oct. 2. Read our recap to learn their identity.

Flower

Clue package:

Becoming the flower is a “natural arrangement”
Has done everything from “cooking to clothing to craft”
“Done everything to the nine” and gets dolled up everywhere they go
The second contestant to reference an “empire”
“Vision of love on this stage, but what’s love got to do with it anyways?”
Sunglasses and a doctorate shown
“You think I’m a professional singer, but I’ve never taken a voice lesson in my life”
Bathtub with a French flag sticking out of it shown
Was talented from a young age
The number 524 shown on a building
“I must have had that x-factor, ain’t nobody going to tell me when to stop growing, boo-boo” — a Chaka Khan reference, perhaps?
Seen wearing a piece of twine with “$13” written on it
Made a possible reference to Dream Girls when she said “being on stage was always my dream, girls”
Said she’s shy about showing her talent because she’s an introvert
A statue is shown, as is a pair of green, sparkly pumps
Made a reference to a “secret garden,” which could be a nod to the famous novel The Secret Garden and all of its various adaptations

Said she’s “always changing”
Multiple bottles of perfume and some dominoes are shown
“So let’s get to it, because I can go on and on like a rolling stone” — did they perform or otherwise work with The Rolling Stones?
Two guys in the background are seen playing Patty Cake

On stage:

Shorter than Cannon
Very soulful voice
Said what makes her the flower is that she “is beautiful and smells so good”
Female voice, sang “9 to 5” by Dolly Parton
Second solo performance: Sang “Cheap Thrills” by Sia
“My favorite band is Kings of Leon”
Third solo performance: Sang “Amazed” by Lonestar
Flower’s revealing item is a deck of cards, of which she said, “It’s not about the hand you’re dealt, it’s about the way you play it, honey”
Fourth solo performance: Sang “Alone” by Heart
“I’ve performed all around the world, but this is the most challenging job I’ve ever had. The Masked Singer is phenomenal.”

Judges’ guesses: Jessie J, Patti LaBelle, Jennifer Hudson, Bjork, Shirley Bassey, Anita Baker, Jennifer Holliday, Barbra Streisand

Update: Flower was eliminated on Nov. 20. Read our exit interview to find out who it was.

Eagle

Clue package:

Classroom set, mentions being “studious and intelligent”
Had a serious health scare and loss of a parent recently
Says they “spent so much time listening to other people’s stories”
Hangs out with rockstars
Rockabilly, motorcycle-vibe

On stage:

“Tall and slim” according to the judges
Sang “I’d Do Anything For Love (But I Won’t Do That)” by Meat Loaf

Judges’ guesses: Bret Michaels, Howard Stern, Pauly Shore, Craig Ferguson

Update: Eagle was eliminated on Oct. 9. Read our exit interview to learn who was under the mask.

Penguin

Clue package:

“In my DNA to strive for my voice to be heard”
They’ve been told they’re “not pretty, smart or funny enough”
News show seen on a television with “Career on ice” as a headline
“I’m gonna sing for those of us who dare to be different”
Protestor in video seen with “I’m not your secretary” signs
“As a chick, I was always relegated to the D-list,” she said, as she’s seen being bullied
“The brightest star can be born out of the greatest tragedy”
Referenced making people laugh
A “hit list” is seen that includes the phrases “The Classroom Bully,” “The Comedy Club,” and “The Hollywood Casting Director” with the former crossed out
“Whether in an office or on stage, I never curb my enthusiasm” — a reference to the HBO show and/or The Office??

On stage:

Short in stature
“Everything is not as black and white as it seems”
Female voice, sang “The Middle” by Zedd, Maren Morris, and Grey
Second solo performance: Sang “All About That Bass” by Meghan Trainor
“I’ve been in many relationships with many of the presidents”

Judges’ guesses: Melissa McCarthy, Megan Mullally, Kathy Griffin, Sherri Shepherd, Nicole Byer, Star Jones, Wanda Sykes, Mindy Kaling

Update: Penguin was eliminated on Nov. 6. Read our exit interview to learn who was under the mask.

Fox

Clue package:

Fairy tale-themed clue package
“Done best work at night,” dabbled in many different genres
From “Doogie to Doubtfire,” lived two different lives
On-air superhero persona, and who they are at home
Comic book strips flashed on screen
Didn’t always fit in, said he “grew up in a rough patch of the woods”
Referenced being bullied, potentially for his voice
“Shazam, fast and furious, I transformed into an undercover superfox”
Never felt like the applause was for him, until going to the show, which makes him “feel like I made it”
Package started at “The Foxhole Hotel” — Jenny McCarthy-Wahlberg mentioned that it could be a reference to the radio station The Foxxhole
Mentioned a 30-year career, with a “Set List” shown with the following things on it: “Everybody say yeah,” “Sugar daddy,” “Cabaret,” and “You and me”
“I’ve won multiple awards and become a household name but I am mostly known for being part of a pack of talented fellas, not my voice alone”
Fox is shown playing a piano as men dressed in all white dance around it

A whiteboard with the improv comedy motto “Yes, and” written on it is shown on screen
Said he chose the fox costume because foxes are “cunning and strong and yet oftentimes underestimated,” which he said he could relate to in his career
Said, “I want to fly away” — a possible reference to Lenny Kravitz?
More references to superheroes and books
“Through this mask I feel unchained” — could it be a reference to Jamie Foxx’s film Django Unchained?
A diorama of a stage with a piano on it is shown
A white piece of paper with the name “Richard” written on it is also shown — is Richard the name of someone important to him or the name of a character he’s played maybe?
“Making it to the semifinals is the greatest gift I have gotten in a long time. It’s been the glue that connected all the parts of my career” — dancing, singing, acting?
A “tweet” from Fox read: “To the dog and the bird — I’ve already won a famous duel on stage. Now it’s time to take down two challengers. #ScrappyAndHungry”
Talked about his perfectionism and attention to detail: “I try to make sure that I am the most prepared person in the room. I’m obsessing over every detail: every dance move, every kick-ball change, every jazz hand — all of it”
Said “winning will allow me to showcase my skills as a singer and finally write my own story”

On stage:

Judges remark that they have “a performer’s presence”
“I’m quick, I refuse to be caged in, and I’m crafty”
Male voice, sang “This Love” by Maroon 5
Second solo performance: Sang “Hey Look Ma, I Made It” by Panic! At the Disco, got really into the choreography
“It’s ironic that I’ve spent most of my life in costume, because growing up I imagined I’d be in a uniform”
Third solo performance: Sang “Every Little Step” by Bobby Brown
Had intense choreography during his song, and ended in the splits
The Fox’s revealing item is a boombox, of which he said, “As a young pup, this gift from my father helped me find my voice and a few others”
Fourth solo performance: “Tennessee Whiskey” by Chris Stapleton
“I am so glad that I am getting the chance to work with my friends, even though my friends don’t know they’re working with me.”
Fifth solo performance: Sang “Blame It” by Jamie Foxx ft. T-Pain
Told the judges “I have spent one of the best weekends of my life with one of you”
Sixth solo performance: Sang “This Christmas” by Donny Hathaway

His gift to the judges was a picture of last season’s Rabbit (who ended up being Joey Fatone). His clue: “My buddy Rabbit came by the foxhole, and told me I would have just as good of a time as he did. And boy was he right!”
Final solo performance: Sang “Try a Little Tenderness” by Otis Redding
“I didn’t know until right now exactly how much winning this would mean. This is all I’ve done my whole life, and I’ve been blessed enough to be able to make a lot of people happy, but I haven’t always been happy myself. It’s taken me all this time to find my joy again, wearing a mask and having no preconceived notions from anyone about what I can do.”

Judges’ guesses: Leslie Odom Jr., Anthony Mackie, Tyrese Gibson, Jamie Foxx, AJ McLean, Ne-Yo, Sterling K. Brown, Shawn Stockman, Taye Diggs, Wayne Brady, Lenny Kravitz

Related content: