Taraji P. Henson Returns as Scary Spice on "The Masked Singer"

Taraji P. Henson, previously unmasked as Scarab, will return as a guest panelist on the upcoming "Spice Girls Night" episode of "The Masked Singer." This episode, set to air on February 25, 2026, will feature contestants performing iconic Spice Girls songs, including "Say You’ll Be There" by Crane, "Wannabe" by Snowcone, and "Too Much" by Pugcasso. Henson will don a costume as "Scarab Spice, aka Scary Spice," while fellow panelists will also dress as Spice Girls characters: Jenny McCarthy Wahlberg as Baby Spice, Rita Ora as Posh Spice, Robin Thicke as Ginger Spice, and Ken Jeong as Old Spice.

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This week, "The Masked Singer" is on a planned hiatus, with Fox airing a re-run of the 2024 special "The Real Full Monty" instead. This special honors the late James Van Der Beek, who passed away from colon cancer on February 11, 2026. The program aims to raise awareness for colorectal cancer and features male celebrities performing striptease routines to promote cancer testing and research. The decision to air this special reflects a commitment to health awareness, particularly in light of Van Der Beek's legacy.

Entertainment Weekly

Season 14 of "The Masked Singer" includes 18 contestants, such as Eggplant, Pugcasso, Queen Corgi, and Googly Eyes. Collectively, these contestants have achieved significant accolades, including 94 million records sold and numerous award nominations. The show is produced by Fox Alternative Entertainment, with Rosie Seitchik, Craig Plestis, and Nick Cannon serving as executive producers.

Variety Magazine

While the show enjoys popularity, some critics argue that the format may overshadow the serious health messages presented in specials like "The Real Full Monty." They express concern that entertainment may dilute the gravity of cancer awareness efforts. However, supporters maintain that such programming can effectively engage audiences and promote important health discussions.

Entertainment Weekly

Fox has confirmed that "The Masked Singer" will return to its regular Wednesday time slot next week, encouraging fans to tune in for the themed episode. The network's decision to air "The Real Full Monty" in place of the regular episode has been framed as a tribute to Van Der Beek and a means to raise awareness about cancer.

Entertainment Weekly

• “Trae Patton/FOX Meanwhile, Masked Singer fans can rest easy: The show will be back to airing in its typical Wednesday time slot next week, Feb.” — Fox Network

Entertainment Weekly

Viewers can look forward to the "Spice Girls Night" episode on February 25, 2026, where they will see the panelists in costume and witness the performances of the remaining contestants. The anticipation surrounding this themed episode highlights the show's ability to blend entertainment with cultural nostalgia.

Entertainment Weekly