On May 2, 2025, TF1 welcomed back its wildly popular show "Mask Singer," hosted once again by Camille Combal. This seventh season promises to be more extravagant than ever, featuring 19 celebrities hidden behind a variety of whimsical costumes, including characters like Rhinoceros, Swan, and Cat. The show has captivated audiences since its inception, and this year’s lineup of investigators includes familiar faces: Chantal Ladesou, Kev Adams, and Laurent Ruquier, along with a new addition, humorist Élodie Poux, who replaces Inès Reg.
Élodie Poux expressed her excitement about joining the show, stating, "I am very happy to be here" during her debut on May 2. Her arrival has sparked mixed reactions on social media, with some fans questioning her selection while others praised her as a vibrant addition to the team. One user on X (formerly Twitter) remarked, "Élodie Poux is a good choice for the jury," while another criticized the choice, saying, "Who is this person?"
As the show kicked off, Camille Combal introduced the format and new features, including mini-games designed to aid the investigators in their quest to unveil the identities of the masked celebrities. Each week, the investigators will face challenges that, if successfully completed, will allow them to ask questions of the contestants. This interactive element is a fresh twist aimed at enhancing viewer engagement.
During the premiere episode, the investigators were introduced to their first mini-game, where they had to identify a celebrity from a pixelated image. Poux successfully recognized Teri Hatcher, an actress who had previously participated in the show, and was able to ask her if she had ever done voice-over work, which Hatcher confirmed. Meanwhile, Kev Adams showcased his skills by guessing the shadows of Michael Jackson and Grand Corps Malade in another mini-game, although Chantal Ladesou struggled to grasp the rules and was unable to ask her questions.
Chantal Ladesou, known for her comedic personality, humorously struggled with the game's mechanics, leading to much banter among the investigators. Combal joked about Ladesou’s memory lapses regarding previous seasons, noting that she even forgot the name of last season's winner. Despite the lighthearted atmosphere, the competition remains fierce, with Ladesou kicking off the season by making her first prediction, or "kabuki," about the identity of the Ostrich.
In addition to the main cast, this season will feature guest investigators, with the first being Cristina Cordula. Cordula hinted at her involvement on social media, teasing fans with a promise of a surprise during the premiere. The anticipation surrounding her appearance adds another layer of excitement to the show.
The production team has invested significant effort into the costumes, which reportedly took over 5,000 hours to create. This year’s lineup includes not just the familiar characters but also new ones like the Strawberry, Broccoli, Bison, and the Queen of Hearts. Each costume is designed to be as extravagant as the performances themselves, ensuring that viewers are treated to a visual spectacle every Friday night.
As the season unfolds, fans are eager to see how the dynamic between the seasoned investigators and the newcomer Poux develops. Some viewers have expressed optimism about Poux's potential, believing she brings a refreshing energy to the panel. One tweet highlighted her as "espiègle, drôle et piquante" (playful, funny, and sharp), suggesting that she may be the perfect fit for the show's humorous tone.
However, the transition from Inès Reg to Élodie Poux has not been without its critics. Last season, Reg faced backlash following her participation in another show, which may have set a precedent for viewer expectations. This year, Poux has an opportunity to redefine the role and win over skeptics with her performance.
As the first episode concluded, the buzz surrounding "Mask Singer" was palpable, with social media abuzz with opinions and predictions. Fans are already speculating about the identities of the contestants and how the new games will influence the investigators’ strategies. The combination of celebrity intrigue, humor, and viewer interaction makes "Mask Singer" one of the most anticipated shows of the season.
With the seventh season now underway, TF1 is banking on the continued success of "Mask Singer" to draw in viewers. The show's unique blend of mystery, comedy, and celebrity culture provides a refreshing escape for audiences. As the weeks progress, viewers will be glued to their screens, eager to see who will be unmasked next and how the new format will play out.
As the competition heats up, fans are reminded that every Friday night brings new surprises, laughter, and the thrill of the chase. The stage is set for another exciting season, and the question on everyone’s mind is: who will be the last celebrity standing?
