The diagnosis was first announced on Wednesday, as the show was starting to film its fifth season, set to premiere in March. Up to this point, strict health and safety guidelines have been put in place, including expanding the judges’ table to keep them six feet apart at all times. Despite the caution, Cannon still received a positive test result, prompting him to immediately enter quarantine. In his place, the first few episodes of season 5 will be hosted by actress and comedian Niecy Nash. The Emmy-nominated star of Reno 911! and Claws is no stranger to the Fox series. She appeared as a guest judge during season 4, as well as a panelist on singing show I Can See Your Voice, hosted by Masked Singer judge Ken Jeong. According to Fox, Nash will serve as host when filming begins on Thursday, and will fill in for at least the first handful of episodes. The network expects Cannon to resume his role once he has made a full recovery and tested negative later this season. Next, Ken Jeong reveals why The Masked Singer has been so successful.
