Alright, pop culture fanatics and reality TV aficionados, let’s dish! If you weren’t glued to your screen for The Masked Singer Season 13 finale, honey, you missed a doozy. We’re talking powerhouse vocals, mind-bending clues, and reveals that had us all screaming, “I KNEW IT!” (or, more often, “Wait, WHAT?!”). But the biggest story? The one that’s got everyone buzzing? That’s gotta be the crowning of Gretchen Wilson, the “Redneck Woman” herself, as the Golden Mask trophy winner. And trust me, this wasn’t just another win; it felt like something bigger.
The May 7th finale was an absolute whirlwind. Four masked marvels – Boogie Woogie, Coral, Mad Scientist Monster, and the enigmatic Pearl – battled it out. Judge Rita Ora even kicked things off with a killer rendition of Chappell Roan’s “Pink Pony Club,” setting the stage for an epic night. The energy was electric, the stakes were high, and everyone, from host Nick Cannon to panelists Ken Jeong, Jenny McCarthy Wahlberg, Robin Thicke, and Rita Ora, was on the edge of their seats. Who would reign supreme in the masked singer season 13?
The Final Four Face-Off: Clues, Calls, and Heart-Stopping Performances
Before the unmaskings began, each finalist gave us one last chance to guess and be amazed. Pearl, our eventual champ, confessed, “It’s so strange that I’ve pulled off being the bejeweled princess. It’s so unlike me. I’d say the hoodie and sweatpants is more in line with who I am.” After belting out KT Tunstall’s “Black Horse and the Cherry Tree,” Ken Jeong dubbed her the “frontrunner,” and Jenny McCarthy agreed, “She came to win this competition.” Talk about setting the bar high!
Coral then graced us with a dreamy “Moon River,” sharing her journey: “For years, I was trying to release my music to be a pop singer. But people weren’t listening. They just thought of me as that girl from those movies.” A touching call from her dad, praising her for “living that dream,” brought tears to many eyes. Could she be Zendaya? Maybe Hailee Steinfeld? The guesses were flying!
Boogie Woogie, ever the entertainer, recounted a heartbreaking story of a neighbor telling him, “Your voice sucks, give up the dream.” Ouch! But he pushed through, and his performance of George Michael’s “Freedom! ’90” absolutely “brought the house down,” according to McCarthy. A call from his daughters, urging him to win, was just adorable. He wanted to show them that “positivity and sincerity can win.” Was it Ryan Tedder? Darren Criss? The mystery deepened.
Rounding out the first set of performances, Mad Scientist Monster revealed he “fell into music by accident,” initially dreaming of being an athlete. His dad encouraged his unconventional path, even pushing him to go solo after his group split. His rendition of Sugarland’s “Stay” was so powerful, Robin Thicke declared it “the best vocal of the season.” A call from his proud parents sealed his emotional performance. Guesses like Sam Hunt and Brian Kelley were thrown around.
The Unmasking Drama: Who Was Behind the Masks?
After the first round, it was time for the tough goodbyes. The studio audience and panel voted, and Mad Scientist Monster was the first to unmask. And who was it? None other than Brian Kelley, one-half of the iconic country duo Florida Georgia Line! Jenny McCarthy Wahlberg nailed that guess. Kelley said he joined to “challenge myself.” Mission accomplished, sir!
Next up, Coral had to reveal her identity. With a cheerleader outfit as a final clue, the mask came off to show Disney Channel star Meg Donnelly! Rita Ora, who correctly guessed her identity, congratulated Donnelly, saying she “really stood her own in the competition.” Donnelly shared, “I did this show to kind of get more comfortable on stage, singing… it’s just helped me immensely.” You go, girl!
The Finalists Unveiled:
| Masked Singer | Celebrity Identity | Noteworthy Performance | Panelist Who Guessed Correctly |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mad Scientist Monster | Brian Kelley (Florida Georgia Line) | “Stay” by Sugarland | Jenny McCarthy Wahlberg |
| Coral | Meg Donnelly (Disney’s Zombies) | “Moon River” by Audrey Hepburn | Rita Ora |
| Boogie Woogie | Andy Grammer (Singer-songwriter) | “Freedom! ’90” by George Michael | None! |
| Pearl (Winner) | Gretchen Wilson (Country Star) | “Black Horse and the Cherry Tree” by KT Tunstall / “I’ll Stand by You” by The Pretenders | Robin Thicke |
The Grand Finale: Boogie Woogie vs. Pearl
With two incredible talents sent home, it all came down to Pearl and Boogie Woogie. The pressure was immense! Boogie Woogie went first with Lewis Capaldi’s “Love the Hell Out of You,” pouring his heart out. Then, Pearl delivered a stunning and emotional rendition of “I’ll Stand by You” by The Pretenders. “Winning tonight would prove that there’s a lot more to me than just the one thing that everybody thinks I am,” Pearl stated afterward. Chills, literal chills!
Before the winner was announced, it was time for Boogie Woogie to unmask. And behind that funky costume was… “Honey, I’m Good” singer Andy Grammer! Surprisingly, none of the panelists guessed him correctly. Grammer was all smiles, saying, “It’s been incredible to get to sing so many different songs and styles.” What a performer!
Watch Andy Grammer’s electrifying reveal as Boogie Woogie!
And the Winner of The Masked Singer Season 13 Is… PEARL!
The moment we’d all been waiting for. Nick Cannon held the envelope, the tension palpable. And then, the announcement: Pearl had won Season 13 of The Masked Singer! “I am floored!” she exclaimed, “I almost hit the floor!” But who was this bejeweled princess with the powerhouse voice and gritty soul?
Her “Crack the Case Clue” was a pair of sparkly pants, gifted by Dolly Parton, that she’d even performed with Dolly in. Robin Thicke, astute as ever, stuck to his guns and correctly identified Pearl. The mask came off, and there stood country music superstar Gretchen Wilson!
The incredible moment Gretchen Wilson was crowned the Season 13 champion!
Why Gretchen Wilson’s Win is a True “Comeback Moment”
This wasn’t just a victory lap for an established artist; for Gretchen Wilson, this felt deeply personal and, dare I say, transformative. When asked by Nick Cannon what inspired her to join the show, she opened up about a challenging period: “I was injured. I was in a wheelchair. And there was a moment where I didn’t think I’d ever get back to this place. And I worked really hard. I prayed really hard. And I got so far. But this opportunity has really proven to me that there’s nothing I can’t do.” Now, that’s an acceptance speech!
In an interview with PEOPLE, Wilson, 51, admitted she was “absolutely positive that Boogie [Andy Grammer] won… I was so stunned because I had myself ready to hear that I was second place.” Talk about humility! But she views this win as a significant turning point. “I feel like it’s sort of a comeback moment,” she shared. “I’m ready to take on anything. “
Let’s be real, for two decades, Gretchen Wilson has been “that redneck girl.” As she put it, “They don’t even know my name, they just see me in the store and they’re like, ‘Hey, you’re that redneck girl.'” The Pearl costume was an opportunity to shatter that one-dimensional image. “This is an opportunity for me to be a girly girl… a side of me that I don’t often get to show because it’s not what people are expecting from me.” And did she ever! She proved she’s multi-dimensional, a true vocal chameleon.
“There was a big part of me that was just like, I want people to see that I’m not just that one thing that they have decided that I am. That was important to me.” – Gretchen Wilson
Her journey on the masked singer was also about proving something to herself. After health struggles and being “a year out of the walking boot” from a shattered leg, she questioned, “Do I still have it? Can I still, at my age, get out there and work it like the young girls do?… It was a real learning experience for me, but it was also me proving to myself that I’m not done yet.” If that doesn’t inspire you, I don’t know what will!
What’s arguably most compelling about Gretchen Wilson taking home the Golden Mask is how it underscores the show’s unique magic. It’s a platform where perceptions are challenged, and talent shines through, regardless of pre-conceived notions or even recent hardships. For Wilson, it wasn’t just about winning a singing competition; it was about reclaiming a narrative, proving her resilience, and stepping back into the spotlight on her own terms, bejeweled and all.
The Power of the Mask: More Than Just a Costume
The beauty of The Masked Singer has always been its ability to strip away the personas and let pure talent speak. For Gretchen Wilson, a Grammy winner already known for her distinctive voice, the Pearl costume offered a different kind of liberation. It allowed her to showcase vocal styles and an emotional range that might have surprised even her most ardent fans. Remember her performance of Whitney Houston’s “Saving All My Love For You” or Lesley Gore’s “You Don’t Own Me”? Pure artistry.
She even touched upon the struggles women face in the industry: “As a woman in business, even in this day, you’re still trying to fight for the credits that you deserve… Is it so hard to believe that I produce my own albums? That I’m more than just a tambourine player and a voice?” Her win, in this context, feels even more significant. It’s a testament to her multifaceted talent, a talent that, perhaps, the industry hasn’t always fully acknowledged beyond her “Redneck Woman” anthem.
This victory, after overcoming significant physical adversity – being in a wheelchair for eight months is no joke – reinforces that spirit of a fighter. It’s a powerful message that transcends the glitz and glam of a TV show. It’s about resilience, reinvention, and the courage to ask, “What am I still capable of?” And then, going out there and showing the world exactly what that is. It’s one of the best comeback narratives we’ve seen, and here’s why it resonates so deeply.
A Season Packed with Surprises!
Of course, the masked singer season 13 was filled with incredible talent beyond our amazing finalists. Who can forget Taika Waititi as Lucky Duck, or Method Man as Stud Muffin? Candace Cameron Bure as Cherry Blossom and James Van Der Beek as Griffin also left their mark. It was a season of legendary unmaskings!
Relive all the jaw-dropping reveals from an unforgettable Season 13!
What’s Next for Our “Redneck Woman” Champion?
So, after conquering The Masked Singer, what does the future hold for Gretchen Wilson? She’s embracing the unknown with newfound confidence. “I have no idea what life’s going to bring… What I do know is having completed these last two things… I feel like I can take almost anything on.” She even joked about buying a dress for an event, a small step outside her comfort zone, proving the Pearl experience “did rub off a little bit. “
Her relationship with her daughter, Gracie, and son-in-law also got a sweet spotlight during the show, showcasing a softer side to the “eternal crab,” as she playfully calls herself. And as for finding a partner? She’s got her criteria: “Definitely older, no children or grandchildren, and his own money in the bank.” You tell ’em, Gretchen!
Ultimately, Gretchen Wilson’s win on The Masked Singer is more than just a shiny trophy. It’s a story of resilience, rediscovery, and the sheer power of talent. It’s a reminder that it’s never too late to challenge perceptions, including your own, and to step out and show the world what you’re truly made of. So, what do you think? Was this one of the most inspiring wins in Masked Singer history? I’d say it’s definitely up there!
The entire Season 13 is now streaming on Hulu, so if you missed any of the action, or just want to relive Gretchen Wilson’s incredible journey as Pearl, you know what to do. Until next season, keep guessing and keep being amazed!
More Masked Marvels: Stars Who Shone Bright After the Unmasking
Gretchen Wilson’s triumphant win as Pearl is a shining example of The Masked Singer’s unique magic – a platform where stars can rewrite their narratives and showcase hidden depths. She’s in great company! Many other artists have used the mystery of the mask to launch exciting new chapters or remind the world of their incredible talent. Here are a few more unforgettable masked journeys:
1. T-Pain (Monster) – The Auto-Tune Icon Proves His Vocal Prowess
Who could forget the shockwaves when Monster, the Season 1 champion, was revealed to be T-Pain? Known for popularizing Auto-Tune, many had pigeonholed his vocal abilities. But under the Monster costume, T-Pain delivered soulful, powerful performances that floored both the panel and audiences. His win wasn’t just a trophy; it was a powerful statement, leading to a widespread re-appreciation of his raw vocal talent and musical versatility. He basically told the world, “Yeah, I can REALLY sing!”
Post-Mask Glow-Up: A massive resurgence in popularity, critical acclaim for his vocals, a new album (“1UP”), his own show on Fuse (T-Pain’s School of Business), and even a Grammy win after the show. The Monster definitely roared back to the top!
2. LeAnn Rimes (Sun) – Finding Freedom and Radiance Under the Mask
When the Sun was crowned the winner of Season 4, revealing multi-platinum artist LeAnn Rimes, it felt like a truly victorious moment. While a celebrated singer, Rimes had navigated years of intense public scrutiny. The Masked Singer offered a sanctuary, allowing her phenomenal voice to shine, free from any preconceived notions or tabloid narratives. Her performances were consistently stunning, a powerful reminder of her exceptional vocal gift. It was less of a comeback and more of a radiant re-emergence, purely on her own terms.
Post-Mask Glow-Up: Renewed focus on her incredible talent, new music projects including her critically acclaimed album “God’s Work,” and a chance to connect with audiences on a purely artistic level, showcasing her resilience and passion for her craft.
3. Donny Osmond (Peacock) – A Showbiz Legend’s Dazzling Encore
The dapper and dynamic Peacock from Season 1, who turned out to be the legendary Donny Osmond, was an absolute delight! As an entertainer with decades of experience, from teen idol to Las Vegas staple, Donny didn’t necessarily need a “comeback.” Instead, The Masked Singer served as a vibrant platform to reintroduce his timeless talent and showmanship to a new generation while delighting long-time fans. He fully embraced the spectacle, finishing as runner-up but capturing hearts with his charisma and vocal chops, proving that true star power never fades.
Post-Mask Glow-Up: A fresh wave of mainstream attention, a new solo album (“Start Again”), a hugely successful solo residency in Las Vegas, and a further cementing of his legacy as an all-around entertainer who can still captivate any audience, young or old.
These journeys, much like Gretchen’s, highlight the incredible opportunity The Masked Singer provides for artists to step outside their usual personas and connect with audiences in a fresh, exciting way. It’s more than just a singing contest; it’s a stage for second acts, surprising revelations, and pure entertainment joy! Which Masked Singer transformation has been your favorite so far? Drop your thoughts in the comments – we’d love to hear them!
Unpacking Pearl’s Victory: Key Questions Answered
Who was crowned the winner of The Masked Singer Season 13?
Gretchen Wilson, performing as the character Pearl, was crowned the winner of The Masked Singer Season 13.
Why was Gretchen Wilson’s win described as a significant ‘comeback moment’?
Her win was a ‘comeback moment’ because she had recently recovered from a serious injury that left her in a wheelchair, making her doubt if she could perform again. The show proved her resilience and allowed her to showcase different facets of her talent beyond her well-known ‘Redneck Woman’ persona.
Who were the other celebrity finalists in The Masked Singer Season 13 finale?
The other finalists were Brian Kelley (Mad Scientist Monster), Meg Donnelly (Coral), and Andy Grammer (Boogie Woogie).
What inspired Gretchen Wilson to participate in The Masked Singer?
Gretchen Wilson was inspired to join after recovering from a serious injury. She wanted to prove to herself and others that she could still perform and challenge perceptions, showing she was more than just ‘that redneck girl’ and capable of diverse performances.
Gretchen Wilson’s Resounding Encore: More Than a Masked Victory
Ultimately, Gretchen Wilson’s win on The Masked Singer is more than just a shiny trophy. It’s a story of resilience, rediscovery, and the sheer power of talent. It’s a reminder that it’s never too late to challenge perceptions, including your own, and to step out and show the world what you’re truly made of.
