Mo Gilligan joins 'The Masked Singer' panel to replace Ken Jeong
Ken Jeong has been replaced by comedian Mo Gilligan on The Masked Singer judging panel.
It comes as international travel restrictions mean the US actor is not able to film the UK series this autumn as a regular panelist although hopes to make some guest appearances.
Jonathan Ross, Rita Ora and Davina McCall will be returning to the panel while Joel Dommett resumes as host.
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Gilligan said: "It’s a real privilege to be joining The Masked Singer team. It’s one of the funniest shows out there and I’m really proud to play my small part to help bring a little bit of joy to the nation.
"I can’t wait to join Jonathan, Rita, Davina, Joel and hopefully Ken! Now… let’s get cracking."
It comes as the star has made some big steps in his career recently after winning a BAFTA in the Entertainment Performance category for his work on programme The Lateish Show with Mo Gilligan.
Katie Rawcliffe, Head of Entertainment, ITV said: “Mo Gilligan is a fantastic talent that is going to bring a fresh new energy to the show and really complement our much-loved returning panel. We’re delighted to have him on the show and to welcome Davina, Rita, Jonathan and Joel back.
"We adore Ken, of course, and hope he can make an appearance or two in this next series.”
The singing competition sees celebrities perform in elaborate costumes to conceal their identities while judges try and guess who's behind the mask, helped by a series of clues.
Contestants are voted out week-by-week, revealing who they are by taking off their mask before they leave the contest.
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The first UK series, which proved to be a ratings hit, saw Girls Aloud's Nicola Roberts - aka Queen Bee - claim a victory.
Other stars in the inaugural season included politician Alan Johnson, comedian Jason Manford and singer Kelis.
