In a thrilling finale that aired on May 7, 2025, Pearl emerged victorious in Season 13 of The Masked Singer, showcasing her remarkable talent and captivating performances throughout the season. The competition, which spanned over 13 weeks, featured a diverse array of contestants, including music stars and actors, all vying for the coveted Golden Mask trophy.
Pearl, who was ultimately revealed to be country singer Gretchen Wilson, outshone her competitors Boogie Woogie, Coral, and Mad Scientist Monster, claiming the top spot with a series of stunning musical renditions. The judges for this season included Robin Thicke, Jenny McCarthy Wahlberg, Ken Jeong, and Rita Ora, who were left astonished by Pearl's vocal prowess.
During the finale, the atmosphere was electric as the finalists took to the stage for one last performance. Pearl's journey to victory was marked by her ability to seamlessly blend various musical genres, from pop to R&B, rock, Latin, and soul. Her performances included a powerful cover of Lesley Gore's "You Don't Own Me," which judge Robin Thicke praised for its "sultry and swaggy" delivery. Other standout performances included The Outfield's "Your Love," Gloria Estefan's "Conga," and Dolly Parton's "Here You Come Again." Her final song, KT Tunstall's "Black Horse and the Cherry Tree," was a fitting capstone to her winning journey.
Boogie Woogie, revealed to be singer-songwriter Andy Grammer, finished in second place after impressing the judges and audience alike. He expressed his competitive spirit, stating, "I was not there to have fun. I’m there to win. Yeah, 100%." Coral, who turned out to be Disney star Meg Donnelly, came in third, while the Mad Scientist Monster, unmasked as Brian Kelley from Florida Georgia Line, took fourth place.
Reflecting on her experience, Wilson shared her motivation for participating in the show, which stemmed from her struggles with health issues following a COVID-19 infection. She described her journey as a chance to reclaim her confidence and showcase her versatility as an artist. "Today’s the day that Gretchen Wilson becomes more than just the Redneck Woman," she quipped, highlighting her desire to break free from the labels often associated with her image.
Wilson's victory was also a testament to her resilience, as she had faced significant health challenges, including high blood pressure, asthma, and a serious ankle injury that left her in a wheelchair for several months. "If I can do this, I can do a 75-minute show in Yuma, Arizona, in August outside," she remarked, emphasizing her determination to overcome obstacles.
Throughout the season, the guessing game surrounding Pearl's identity kept viewers on the edge of their seats. Clues about her background included references to a "tough exterior" and her humble beginnings, performing in small venues. Judge Jenny McCarthy-Wahlberg correctly identified the country genre associated with Pearl, which ultimately led to her successful reveal.
The finale also featured a surprise unmasking of Lucky Duck, who was revealed to be filmmaker Taika Waititi, adding an extra layer of excitement to the episode. As the competition came to a close, the anticipation for the next season of The Masked Singer began to build, especially with FOX announcing plans for Season 14, set to premiere in January 2026. This scheduling shift aims to allow for a more robust production process and to attract bigger names to the cast.
As for the other finalists, Boogie Woogie expressed his appreciation for the experience, noting the unique camaraderie formed among the contestants despite the competitive nature of the show. He and Wilson developed a friendly rapport, supporting each other throughout their performances. "We had this love for each other as Boogie and Pearl, like it was just the sweetest thing," Wilson shared, highlighting the genuine connections formed behind the masks.
Now that the season has concluded, Wilson is looking forward to a new chapter in her career, fueled by the confidence gained from her time on the show. She plans to continue performing and releasing new music, including her upcoming Sunshine State of Mind Tour, which kicks off on July 24, 2025. With her newfound sense of self and the support of her fans, Wilson is ready to embrace whatever comes next.
As the dust settles on another season of The Masked Singer, fans are left buzzing with excitement for the future. With a mix of talent, drama, and heartfelt moments, this season has proven to be one for the books. The anticipation for Season 14 is palpable, and as Wilson aptly put it, this show allowed her to reveal the many facets of her artistry that had long been hidden.
