The Masked Singer: Former NBA Superstar Unveiled as Cuddle Monster

A sports legend was revealed to be Wild Card contestant Cuddle Monster—the largest character in Masked Singer history—of the Fox competition series' Nov. 15 episode.

By Brett Malec Nov 16, 2023 2:05 AMTags
Watch: The Masked Singer REVEALS the Doll's Celebrity Identity!

Unfortunately for Cuddle Monster, his Masked Singer performance was not a slam dunk.

An NBA legend made his debut as a Wild Card contestant on the Fox competition series' Nov. 15 episode in the biggest costume to ever grace the show's stage. However, after the retired sports star's performance of "You Got It (The Right Stuff)" by New Kids on the Block during Trolls night, he was sent packing.

Prior to his elimination, Cuddle Monster shared some clues hinting at his true identity.

"Me, a Wild Card? It's gotta be destiny because I was definitely a wild child," the celebrity shared. "I grew up in a beautiful but sometimes violent place. But lucky for me, I got out because of my passion. A generational talent as some would attest."

But amid his professional success, the star revealed he struggled with mental health issues.

"I had sponsorship deals, sneakers, even a record or two," he continued. "Despite all that fame and recognition, my trauma was keeping up with me and I couldn't fight that monster inside. I was self-destructing during the peak of my career. I couldn't figure out why I was always unhappy and defensive, so I took a giant step and asked for help."

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Sports Nuts: Famous Fans

Cuddle Monster then revealed he made a major change in his life.

"I learned the tools to tame the rage through meditation and positive energy," he concluded. "Never let your circumstances determine your fate. Sometimes all you need is a change of perspective and persona to let your inner cuddle monster sing."

Steve Granitz/FilmMagic/Michael Becker/Fox

As for the judges' suspicions, all four picked sports stars. Ken Jeong guessed Draymond Green, Robin Thicke picked Dennis Rodman, Jenny McCarthy guessed Tristan Thompson and Nicole Scherzinger chose Shaquille O'Neal.

But when it came time for the reveal, it was none other than former L.A. Lakers and Chicago Bulls forward Metta World Peace.

"It was an amazing experience," he said. "I was trying to make it fun."

The 44-year-old added that he's excited to finally tell his family about his secret gig, noting, "I can't wait for my grandbaby to see this."

Keep reading to meet the whole cast and see who is still in the competition. The Masked Singer airs Wednesdays at 8 p.m. on Fox.

Anonymouse: Eliminated Pre-Premiere

During the season 10 kickoff special on Sept. 10, Demi Lovato was revealed as Anonymouse. However, she won't be competiting, it was a special one-time appearance.

"I wanted to be on your show," she told host Nick Cannon during the episode, "because it seemed so fun, and it has been so fun. And I get to sing, so its the best of both worlds."

Rubber Ducky: Eliminated Week 1

The Rubber Ducky was revealed as Black-ish actor Anthony Anderson on the Sept. 27 episode.

Diver: Eliminated Week 2

The Diver was exposed as Vanderpump Rules star Tom Sandoval on Oct. 4.

Pickle: Eliminated Week 3

Michael Rapaport was unmasked as the Pickle on the Oct. 11 episode.

Royal Hen: Eliminated Week 4

Tennis legend Billie Jean King was revealed to be the Royal Hen on the Oct. 18 episode.

Hawk: Eliminated Week 5

Teen Wolf's Tyler Posey was unmasked as Hawk during Harry Potter week.

Hibiscus: Eliminated Week 6

Say hello to the Countess! The Real Housewives of New York City icon Luann de Lesseps was revealed as Hibiscus during week six.

Cuddle Monster: Eliminated Week 7

Cuddle Monster was a surprise addition to season 10 when he was introduced as a Wild Card contestant during week seven. However, his time on the show was short lived. During his elimination, it was revealed the giant star was none other than former NBA pro Metta World Peace.

S'more: Eliminated Week 8

During Disco Night, S'more was unmasked as Ashley Parker Angel from the hit 2000s boy band O-Town.

Tiki: Eliminated Week 9

Skid Row rocker and Gilmore Girls alum Sebastian Bach was sent home during week nine.

Huskey: Eliminated Week 9

"Pony" singer Ginuwine was revealed as Husky after being eliminated during Rock 'n' Roll week.

Anteater: Eliminated Week 10

Singer John Oates was revealed as Anteater during a double elimination.

Candelabra: Eliminated Week 10

Singer Keyshia Cole was revealed as Candelabra during a double elimination.

Sea Queen: Fourth Place

The royal was sent swimming home on the Dec. 20 finale after her unveiling as R&B and soul singer Macy Gray.

Gazelle: Third Place

The animal was unmasked as Pretty Little Liars star Janel Parrish. 

Donut: Runner-Up

The donut was revealed on the finale to be Smallville actor John Schneider.

Cow: Winner

The cow was the cream of the crop, with three-time Grammy winner Ne-Yo taking the trophy on season 10.  

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