Former federal minister reveals he almost took part in The Masked Singer

Millions of Australians tuned in to Network Ten show The Masked Singer last year, as celebrities such as Cody Simpson, Brett Lee, Rob Mills and Wendell Sailor battled it out to be crowned the winner. But now, a former top politician has revealed he almost took part in the debut series of the talent show.

Former Defence Minister Christopher Pyne, who retired from parliament in 2019 after an impressive 27 years as the member for Sturt, made the surprising revelation during an interview on Triple M’s Hot Breakfast show yesterday morning.

“What you probably don’t know … is that I was asked to do The Masked Singer this year,” the 52-year-old told host Eddie McGuire. “And I came very close to saying yes.”

And to Pyne’s surprise, McGuire revealed he too had been approached to take part in the program. He replied: “I was as well!”

Pyne’s revalation comes after it was announced that, due to border restrictions in line with the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic, judge Lindsay Lohan would be unable to return to Australia, therefore she will be replaced by New Zealand comedian Urzila Carlson.

“I’m pumped to do the show, but I’m also upset that Lindsay can’t be the other panellist,” she said in a statement. “But for anyone who is at home and angry, think about this – I have to wear her wardrobe because they’ve already spent the money, so they are just putting in a few clips for me.

“Spare a thought for me, and tune in just for that, and the amazing talent under the masks!”

While host Osher Günsberg said: “We couldn’t be more excited to welcome Urzila into the bonkers world of The Masked Singer Australia. She is an absolute crack up, and will fit right in as the panel tries to guess who is who!”

Carlson will join Jackie O, Dave Hughes and Dannii Minogue on the judging panel when the show returns for a second season later this year.