In a surprising turn of events on The Masked Singer, Ben Shephard was revealed as the celebrity hidden beneath the Conker costume during the show's 2026 finale. The revelation shocked not just the audience but also the show's judging panel, which includes notable figures such as Mo Gilligan, Maya Jama, Davina McCall, and Jonathan Ross. Shephard's dual role as both a performer and a guest judge created a complex scenario that left the judges reeling, particularly given that he had previously appeared on the show just weeks prior in a judging capacity.

During the finale, the moment of Shephard’s unmasking was met with disbelief from the judges, many of whom had shared a panel with him earlier in the season. The presenters’ ability to conceal their true identity as a contestant while interacting with the judges added an interesting twist to the competition. Everyone was taken by surprise, demonstrating Shephard’s skill in maintaining his disguise despite the close proximity to the judging panel.

The season ended not just with Shephard's reveal as a contestant but also with a new champion crowned, as Sugababes member Keisha Buchanan took home the title while performing as the Moth. This finale not only showcased the talents of the contestants but also highlighted the unpredictability that keeps viewers engaged and guessing about who might be hiding under the masks, further solidifying The Masked Singer's popularity among audiences in the UK and beyond.