Yak from The Masked Singer revealed as punk rock legend
The unveiling of the Masked Singer’s latest celebrity contestant added excitement to the show, with punk rock legend John Lydon, also known as Johnny Rotten, discovered as the Yak. The 69-year-old former Sex Pistols frontman was revealed during a sports day-themed episode of the singing competition, where he faced off against Monkey Business in a sing-off. The show features celebrities performing in elaborate costumes to keep their identities hidden, creating an element of mystery and intrigue.
Cricket legend Freddie Flintoff joined the regular panel of judges, which includes Jonathan Ross, Maya Jama, Mo Gilligan, and Davina McCall, during this episode. Flintoff astutely identified Lydon as the Yak after his performance of Olivia Newton-John’s “Physical,” impressing both the audience and Lydon himself. Following the unmasking, Lydon expressed his disbelief at how quickly Flintoff was able to guess his identity, remarking on the clever hints and clues given throughout the show.
Lydon shared his enjoyment of the experience, describing it as “unbelievable” and expressing his love for the show. He cleverly disguised his singing voice to avoid giving away his true identity, showcasing a different side of himself to the audience. Additionally, he humorously mentioned that a little extra cash from his appearance fee would greatly benefit his ongoing album recording process. His participation on the show not only provided entertainment but also assisted in funding his new music project.
The punk icon emphasized the importance of showcasing the fun and playful side of his personality during his performances. Preferring to surprise the audience with his unique style rather than sticking to traditional singalong routines, Lydon displayed his court jester nature on stage. Known for his rebellious spirit and provocative lyrics, as seen in iconic songs like “God Save The Queen” and “Anarchy in the UK,” Lydon’s musical career has left a lasting impact on the punk rock genre.
Despite the temporary reunion of The Sex Pistols for a series of gigs last year, Lydon made it clear that he would never return to the group after a legal battle surrounding the use of their music in a Disney+ series called “Pistol.” Despite this, he continues to pursue his music endeavors through his band Public Image Ltd (PiL). Other characters like Toastie, Arctic Fox, and Conkers also showcased their talents in the latest episode of The Masked Singer, promising more exciting performances in the upcoming weeks.
The 2025 series of The Masked Singer was won by Samantha Barks, a celebrated musical theatre star who impressed audiences while disguised as a pufferfish. Hosted by comedian Joel Dommett, the show continues to captivate viewers with its unique blend of mystery, music, and entertainment. As the competition heats up, fans eagerly anticipate the next thrilling episodes of The Masked Singer on ITV1, ITVX, STV, and STV Player.