The Masked Singer rocked by scandal
The Masked Singer has remained one of Australia’s most talked-about shows.
From its star-studded performances, over-the-top costumes, and cryptic hints, it is no wonder it has been able to remain such a topic of discussion.
However, the show took a turn when it was shut down thanks to a wave of COVID infections on set.
As a result, the pandemic restrictions in Victoria forced the show’s studio audience to be moved completely online.
Before filming began, fans were asked to sign up to watch the tapings and place their vote.
However doubt and disappointment was cast on the validity of their votes after fans took to a Facebook group to say the show was appearing to recycle the webcam audience appearances over a number of episodes.
"They like mixing up the Zoom meetings," said a fan, who noticed two of their separate audience appearances had appeared on the same episode.
An audience member who sat in on the performances back in 2019 says she believes the voting is completely made up.
"You're handed an iPhone so it appears you're voting, but it all seems fake," says the source.
Its been reported that producers have already dictated who gets eliminated – based on contracts and availability.
"The eliminations are decided based on contracts," the source told reporters, who added that it's often extremely difficult to book in big names for long filming days.
"The judges decide who goes home during the taping, but there's a lot of pre-planning that makes sure the right celebrities are competing against one another."
Over the weekend, the show was marred by scandal yet again when it was revealed that production had to be shut down just hours before the season finale.
Seven dancers tested positive to COVID-19.
"The entire production team, including the masked singers, the host and panellists are now in self-isolation. They are all being monitored closely and are in constant contact with medical authorities," a statement from Channel 10 said.