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FAMILIAR FACES

Holly Willoughby, David Walliams and John Bishop join The Masked Dancer judging panel ahead of new series

HOLLY Willoughby, John Bishop and David Walliams are joining the panel of The Masked Dancer as this season’s guest panellists. 

The bonkers ITV series, a spin-off of The Masked Singer, will see secret celebrity dancers fight for their place in the competition, while performing in elaborate costumes. 

Holly Willoughby will be turning detective for the new series
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Holly Willoughby will be turning detective for the new seriesCredit: Instagram
David Walliams will be trading BGT for The Masked Dancer panel
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David Walliams will be trading BGT for The Masked Dancer panelCredit: Getty

In addition to the regular panel - Jonathan Ross, Davina McCall, Mo Gilligan and newcomer Oti Mabuse - Holly, John and David will be putting their detective skills to the test. 

On the announcement, Holly said: “How the Masked Dancers are able to pull off the moves they're doing in these costumes is mind blowing! 

“I absolutely loved joining the panel as a special guest and getting to play detective. You’re all in for a real treat.”

Comedian John, who has been announced as starring in the upcoming series of Doctor Who, added: “I went to The Masked Dancer recording not sure what it would be like, but it was the most fun I’ve had for a long time.

John Bishop praised the fun he had on the show
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John Bishop praised the fun he had on the showCredit: Getty - Contributor

“The show is crazy – but in a good way - and seeing the video wall with all the viewers and families at home watching gives it an extra spice.  

“It was a really fun evening and I thoroughly enjoyed it.”

Britain’s Got Talent judge David also said he had a “blast” doing the show - and couldn’t help but compare it to his typical placement on the ITV schedule. 

Who's hiding behind the masks?
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Who's hiding behind the masks?Credit: ITV
Joel Dommett is returning with Mo, Davina, Oti and Jonathan
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Joel Dommett is returning with Mo, Davina, Oti and JonathanCredit: ITV

“Joel and the other judges made me feel so welcome. It is much harder than judging BGT though,” he said. 

“This is more like having to be a detective!”

A dozen celebrities will be shaking their tail feather - in some cases, literally - in the fun new competition. 

Characters for the upcoming series include a squirrel, a carwash and a knickerbocker glory. 

Will they be able to keep their identity hidden? 

The Masked Dancer starts Saturday 29th May at 7pm on ITV. 

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