The Masked Singer judge Maya Jama posted a message poking fun at contestant Macy Gray’s surprising reaction to her elimination from the series.
Gray, a Grammy-winning artist recognized for her popular track “I Try,” performed as Toad in the Hole for the series, where celebrities sing while clad in intricate costumes. The judges and viewers at home must decipher the identities of the participants based on their vocal performances and a variety of cryptic hints.
During the episode that aired on Saturday (11 January), Gray exited the stage abruptly upon the announcement of her departure from the show.
After being persuaded to return for the de-masking and interview, Gray engaged in an awkward dialogue, providing curt responses to the interviewer’s inquiries.
Jama, who serves as a judge in the series alongside Jonathan Ross, Davina McCall, and Mo Gilligan, shared a snippet of Gray’s exit on Instagram, accompanied by a humorous remark.
“Me at any small inconvenience,” she commented.
Joel Dommett, the host of the series, also touched on the incident during an interview with Paddy McGuinness on BBC Radio 2.
“[The Masked Singer] is somewhat of a singing competition but it’s equally a guessing game – it doesn’t neatly fit into either category,” he remarked.
“Furthermore, if you are an exceptional vocalist and manage to advance, that’s absolutely fantastic, but at times, as in Macy Gray’s situation, her voice is so distinctive and she’s a legend that it’s immediately recognizable.
“Therefore, it becomes one of those situations where everyone is aware of her identity; she might as well leave, allowing the other contestant to progress since we don’t fully recognize them. Thus, the guessing continues.”
Dommett continued: “The amusing aspect is, I believe it’s a favorable situation regardless of the outcome – whether you reach the finale, it’s a success as you are winning. However, if you depart early, it’s also beneficial because you leave sooner but receive the same compensation.”