The chaotic guessing game that is The Masked Singer has returned to ITV screens for its seventh series in 2026, introducing a fresh batch of bewildering costumes. Among them is a character that embodies a familiar phrase for a complicated problem: Can of Worms.
Clues From The Can
Host Joel Dommett is back alongside detectives Jonathan Ross, Davina McCall, Mo Gilligan, and Maya Jama, who has already singled out the wormy performer as her favourite of the new series. The character's first appearance provided several tantalising hints for viewers to dissect.
Can of Worms speaks with what sounds like an American accent, though the panel suspects it might be fake. Their introductory video featured a plate of pastries, sparking theories about a breakfast TV connection. Gardening imagery was prominent, with the character stating, "Here's my patch," and talking about growing "beautiful things," even claiming, "As a worm, I have green fingers... it runs in the family like it was written in the stars."
Perhaps most notably, a framed photo of James May and Richard Hammond from Top Gear appeared, suggesting a link to that world or perhaps Clarkson's Farm. The line, "It really sucks when I have to wrestle with wildlife," added to the rural theme. Maya Jama also highlighted the contestant's impressive rapping ability and flawless timekeeping as a potential clue.
Top Suspects For The Costume
The panel and fans online have wasted no time in putting forward their best guesses for the celebrity inside the intricate can.
Kaleb Cooper emerged as a strong contender, suggested by guest judge Anne-Marie. The farming references in the VT align perfectly with Jeremy Clarkson's farmhand, though some doubt he could maintain a fake American accent.
Davina McCall's ears pricked up at the mention of "Stoke," leading her to propose Robbie Williams. The Angels singer was born in Stoke-on-Trent, and the clue about talent being "written in the stars" could nod to his entertainer father, Pete Conway.
Mo Gilligan and Jonathan Ross pondered a connection to fishing, pointing towards comedian and actor Paul Whitehouse, who starred in a fishing-based sitcom. Ross noted Whitehouse has West End singing experience and comes from a musical family.
Finally, Maya Jama and several viewers on social media platform X believe the breakfast clues point to daytime TV host Ben Shephard. One confident fan even declared, "If Can of Worms isn't @benshephard I will eat my hat!"
The Verdict Is Still Out
With the series just launched, the true identity of Can of Worms remains a tightly sealed secret. Jonathan Ross admitted the performance won him over, believing the star underneath "can really sing." As more episodes air on ITV1 and ITVX, additional clue packages will hopefully unravel this perplexing puzzle. For now, the theories continue to multiply, proving this particular can of worms is as entertainingly complex as its name suggests.
