The Masked Singer recently had a highly entertaining reveal during the Group B Finals, where the Beets were unmasked as American Idol alumni Ruben Studdard and Clay Aiken. Despite their performance of “(I’ve Had) The Time of My Life” not saving them in the final moments of the show, the panelists enjoyed their act. Studdard and Aiken, both age 45, competed on season 2 of Idol in 2003, with Studdard ultimately winning the title. They have remained friends since then and even embarked on a joint tour in 2023 to celebrate the 20th anniversary of their time on Idol.
Aiken previously admitted that he did not appreciate attendees telling him they had voted for him or Studdard, as it reminded them of the pressures and controversies surrounding their time on Idol. However, Studdard took a more positive perspective, acknowledging that their fans are the reason they had the opportunity to go on the anniversary tour in the first place. The duo’s interactions with their fans underscore the lasting impact they have had on their audience and the music industry as a whole.
Throughout the season of The Masked Singer, panelists had guessed various celebrities as the Beets, including Jason Bateman, Will Arnett, Steve Martin, and Martin Short. However, in hindsight, all the clues pointed towards Studdard and Aiken, with references to their time on Idol and their close bond over the years. The 40 million eyes on Beets hint was a nod to the enormous viewership of nearly 40 million people who watched the season 2 finale of Idol, where their careers took off.
Studdard and Aiken have often spoken about their strong bond and brotherly relationship, despite the challenges and expectations that come with being in the spotlight. Aiken shared a heartfelt message on Instagram in December 2022, emphasizing the special connection he shares with Studdard and the genuine friendship that has developed between them over the years. Their performances on The Masked Singer not only entertained the audience but also showcased their chemistry and camaraderie on stage.
The Masked Singer continues to captivate viewers with its star-studded reveals and surprising twists. While the panelists may have been stumped by the Beets’ true identities, the journey to unmasking them as Studdard and Aiken was a memorable and heartwarming experience for fans. The show’s ability to bring together talented performers and create unique moments like this Group B Finals reveal only adds to its appeal and popularity amongst audiences. With each episode, The Masked Singer delivers entertainment, nostalgia, and excitement that keep viewers coming back for more.
