Rita Ora had the shock of her life during this week’s semi-finals episode of The Masked Singer Season 13, when her husband, Oscar-winning director Taika Waititi, was revealed to be the mysterious and playful Lucky Duck. The dramatic moment unfolded on what was already a high-stakes night, as contestants from Group A, B, and C battled it out for a spot in the finale.
The jaw-dropping revelation came right at the end of the episode, catching not only the judges but also the audience completely off guard. Ora, a regular judge on the panel, was visibly stunned when Waititi removed the elaborate Lucky Duck mask and waved to the cheering crowd. Her mouth fell open in surprise, and she rose to her feet in disbelief and laughter as the cameras captured every second of the unexpected reunion.
A Season Full of Teases
From the start, Lucky Duck was one of the most cryptic and entertaining characters this season. While not part of the competition lineup, the costumed character made sporadic appearances throughout the show, teasing viewers and panelists alike with mysterious clues and playful antics. Fans and judges speculated about Lucky Duck’s identity, with names ranging from comedians to musical artists being thrown around.
But none of the panelists guessed that it would be someone so close to home for Rita Ora. The twist was kept under tight wraps, and Waititi's appearance on stage was orchestrated as a special surprise. Viewers online immediately took to social media to express their amusement and admiration for the couple’s adorable interaction, with many praising Waititi’s playful spirit and Ora’s genuine shock.
The Semi-Finals Showdown
The semi-finals night featured fierce competition among four standout performers—Group A’s Coral, Group B’s Pearl and Boogie Woogie, and Group C’s Mad Scientist Monster. The performers were paired off into two dramatic faceoffs to determine who would proceed to the finals.
In the first battle, Pearl and Mad Scientist Monster delivered compelling performances that won over both the judges and the audience. Pearl’s mesmerizing vocals and Mad Scientist Monster’s quirky charisma secured their spots in the finals.
That left Boogie Woogie and Coral to face off in a final smackdown for the coveted third finalist spot. Coral performed an emotional rendition of KT Tunstall’s Suddenly I See, while Boogie Woogie brought high energy with Jet’s Are You Gonna Be My Girl. The judges deliberated, the audience voted, and tension filled the studio.
But before the results could be announced, Lucky Duck made a surprise return to the stage, ringing the iconic “Ding Dong Keep It On” bell—a tool typically used earlier in the season to save contestants. This marked a rare instance of the bell being used this late in the competition, leaving everyone confused at first.
Then came the twist.
Taika Waititi Steps Out from Behind the Mask
“Wait, what?!” Ora exclaimed, covering her mouth in disbelief. “No way! That’s my husband!” The surprise not only gave viewers an unforgettable moment, but it also added an extra layer of excitement to an already thrilling episode.
Waititi then announced that instead of eliminating anyone, all four semi-finalists—Coral, Boogie Woogie, Pearl, and Mad Scientist Monster—would be moving on to next week’s finals. His appearance, though brief, changed the course of the competition and added a joyful, celebratory tone to the evening.
Fans React
The internet was instantly flooded with reactions from fans, many of whom expressed how much they enjoyed the reveal and Rita Ora’s reaction. “Taika Waititi dressing up as Lucky Duck just to surprise Rita? That’s love,” one fan posted on X (formerly Twitter). Another wrote, “I did not see that coming at all. The Masked Singer just keeps getting better.”
Clips of the unmasking and Ora’s priceless expression quickly trended on social media platforms, with some fans calling it one of the best reveals in Masked Singer history. The show has become known for its celebrity surprises, but rarely has one felt so personal and authentic.
A Power Couple Moment
Rita Ora and Taika Waititi, who married in 2022, have been known for their playful chemistry and public support for each other’s projects. While Ora has been lighting up the panel with her quick wit and musical expertise, Waititi has been busy juggling film projects and appearances. His decision to step into the world of The Masked Singer just to surprise his wife is a testament to their close bond—and sense of humor.
In interviews, the couple has often spoken about their ability to keep things fun and spontaneous, and this latest moment proves they aren’t just saying it—they’re living it.
What’s Next?
With all four semi-finalists now advancing to the finale, next week’s episode promises to be a show-stopper. Fans are eagerly anticipating the final performances and the ultimate reveal of who’s behind the remaining masks. Will Coral, Pearl, Boogie Woogie, or Mad Scientist Monster take home the crown? That remains to be seen.
But one thing is clear: it will be tough for anything to top the surprise appearance of Lucky Duck this season.