Season 12 of The Masked Singer ended in an exciting and emotional finale on Dec. 19. Host Nick Cannon, dressed as Santa Claus, called it “the most legendary episode ever.” Two finalists, Buffalos and Wasp, competed for the Golden Mask trophy in front of judges Ken Jeong, Jenny McCarthy, Rita Ora, and Robin Thicke.
The show began with a cheerful performance by Nick Lachey, the winner of season 5, who sang “It’s The Most Wonderful Time of the Year.” Cannon handed out gifts to the judges as the celebration got underway.
Wasp shared how important the competition was to him. He said it made him feel recognized for his talent. “For a long time, I felt underrated,” he explained in a clue package. He also revealed he had worked with famous artists like Lil Wayne, Vanessa Hudgens, and NE-YO.
Wasp dedicated his performances to his late mother, saying, “I feel my mom here with me in spirit, and she’s giving me wings for these last two performances.”
For his first song, Wasp sang Bruno Mars’ “When I Was Your Man,” earning guesses like Jason Derulo, Usher, and even Bruno Mars himself. His second song, Whitney Houston’s “I’m Your Baby Tonight,” showed his wide range of talent. Wasp gave advice to his younger self, saying, “Trust your intuition—it will guide you.”
Buffalos, the first group to reach the finale, reflected on their long career and struggles. They said their time on The Masked Singer helped them reconnect as a group and honor their fans.
“This journey has been for our fans, our kids, and everyone who stuck with us for over three decades,” one Buffalo said.
The group sang Gotye’s “Somebody That I Used to Know” and then Sam Smith’s “Too Good at Goodbyes.” Their harmonies impressed everyone, with Robin Thicke saying, “Those harmonies make you feel like you’re walking through the gates of heaven.”
In the end, Buffalos were announced as the winners, becoming the first group to ever win The Masked Singer.
Before they unmasked, runner-up Wasp revealed himself to be R&B star Mario, known for his hit song “Let Me Love You.”
When Buffalos took off their masks, they were revealed as Nathan Morris, Wanya Morris, and Shawn Stockman from the famous group Boyz II Men.
Fans can now rewatch the exciting season 12 finale of The Masked Singer on Hulu.
