Nearly two years after stepping away from The Masked Singer, Nicole Scherzinger’s absence from the judging panel continues to spark speculation among fans. While viewers have repeatedly called for her return, industry insiders now suggest that her departure may be permanent.
Nicole, best known as the former frontwoman of The Pussycat Dolls, left the Fox competition series following season ten. Her exit marked the end of an era for the show, which had relied heavily on her musical expertise, emotional reactions, and on screen chemistry with fellow judges.
At the time, no clear explanation was given beyond creative changes. However, sources familiar with the production indicate that Nicole’s rapidly evolving career placed her on a very different trajectory than the long running reality series.
Since leaving the show, Nicole has experienced a significant professional resurgence. Her critically acclaimed performance in Sunset Boulevard earned her a Tony Award nomination, elevating her profile within the Broadway and theater world. She also secured a new high profile judging role on Netflix’s Building the Band, further cementing her position as a respected figure in both music and performance based television.
According to insiders, this upward momentum fundamentally changed how Nicole fit into The Masked Singer brand. One source explained that while she was deeply appreciated by producers and fans alike, her growing stature made a return increasingly impractical.
“Nicole was genuinely loved on the show,” the source said. “But her career reached a level where the show could no longer justify bringing her back under the same conditions.”
Budget considerations also reportedly played a major role. As Nicole’s demand increased following her Broadway success, her asking price rose accordingly. Sources suggest that the series, now well into its multi season run, had to make more financially strategic casting decisions.
From a production standpoint, replacing a long time judge was not an easy move. Nicole had been a core part of the panel alongside Ken Jeong, Robin Thicke, and Jenny McCarthy Wahlberg. Her musical background and ability to connect emotionally with contestants helped shape the show’s tone during its early seasons.
Still, insiders insist the decision was not driven by ego or tension. “Nicole wasn’t being difficult or dismissive of the show,” one source clarified. “It simply reached a point where returning would not have made sense for her career path.”
When season eleven premiered, Nicole was officially replaced by Rita Ora, a move that initially sparked mixed reactions from viewers. While Rita’s debut faced some early criticism, producers say she has since settled comfortably into the panel dynamic.
“Joining a group that’s been together for years is never easy,” the source explained. “There was some awkwardness at first, but Rita found her footing and now fits in well with both the judges and the crew.”
Despite lineup changes, The Masked Singer has continued to thrive. Since its debut in 2019, the show has aired fourteen seasons using its twice a year release format. Nick Cannon has returned as host for season fourteen, which also features a supersized two hour premiere packed with elaborate costumes, musical performances, and multiple eliminations.
While the show’s success remains steady, Nicole’s legacy on the series is still widely acknowledged. Many fans credit her emotional reactions and vocal insight as key elements that helped distinguish The Masked Singer from other competition shows.
Behind the scenes, the program has also faced scrutiny over its production methods. Reports have previously revealed that contestant unmaskings are not performed in front of a live audience, despite the illusion created during broadcast. According to sources, studio audiences are escorted out prior to the reveal to prevent leaks, with reaction shots filmed separately to preserve suspense.
As for Nicole, those close to her say she has no regrets. Her focus has shifted toward projects that align more closely with her artistic goals and long term ambitions. While a return to The Masked Singer has not been officially ruled out, industry insiders believe it is increasingly unlikely.
At this stage, Nicole Scherzinger appears committed to moving forward rather than looking back. And while fans may continue to hope for a surprise comeback, the reality is that her career has evolved far beyond the panel that once made her a household name.
