Why is Rita Ora Missing from Tonight's 'Masked Singer' Episode?

The penultimate episode of The Masked Singer Season 12 was all about the power of three. Three acts belted their hearts out for a spot in next week's finale. One of the groups themselves are three performers, harmonizing in perfection as "Buffalos." And, surprisingly, even the judges were a trio, as the panel for this week's episode was surprisingly missing Rita Ora.

The semi final proceedings kicked off normally, as the remaining masks took to the stage for a rousing rendition of "Some Nights." However, when the camera cut to the judges' panel, there were only three applauding: Robin Thicke, Jenny McCarthy-Wahlberg, and Ken Jeong. Conspicuously absent was the newest judge, Rita, who had joined the American version of the FOX reality series earlier in 2024.

"Sadly, Rita is under the weather," Nick Cannon revealed. "But we wish her well, and we'll see her next week."

While fans were largely surprised by the empty space next to Ken, some eagled-eyed devotees of The Masked Singer were able to anticipate it ahead of time. After promos released of this episode earlier in the week, some took to the Masked Singer Reddit to point out that the footage only included footage from Robin, Jenny, and Ken. WhileAt that led to rampant speculation as to why she would suddenly be missing, one user provided the simplest explanation, "She was sick. She will be back for the finale."

At the time of this article's publication, it's unknown as to what exactly Rita had to make her so sick to miss an episode taping. Season 12 of The Masked Singer was recorded in the spring of 2024. We're not sure if Rita came down to COVID-19, or if there was another illness that kept her off-camera for the semi finals. But, as Nick announced (and solidified by a lower third graphic as well), she will be back in next week's finale with a clean bill of health to celebrate whoever will be the next recipient of the Golden Mask trophy.