Season 11 of The Masked Singer came to an end with an exciting celebrity reveal, as Vanessa Hudgens was unmasked as Goldfish, triumphing over Gumball, who turned out to be Scott Porter. Hudgens, 35, expressed her joy at being able to participate in the show, saying it allowed her to do something she truly loves. She gave a tearful tribute to her mother before performing one final song, a cover of Alanis Morissette’s “You Oughta Know.” Hudgens and Porter previously co-starred in the movie Bandslam, where her character beat his in a music competition, creating a fun and nostalgic moment during the reveal.
Throughout the season, Hudgens dropped several hints about her identity, keeping the panelists guessing. Fans suspected her involvement from the very beginning due to clues alluding to her career, such as references to a fishbowl, her past success, and her role in the film Spring Breakers. Additionally, a comment about dating in Hollywood and her past relationships seemed to point towards her well-known personal life, especially a moment at an Oscars afterparty where she walked past her ex-boyfriend Austin Butler without acknowledging him, which went viral on TikTok.
A significant clue to Goldfish’s true identity was revealed on Queen Night, as she shared a story about losing her number one supporter right before a major performance. This was a clear reference to the passing of Hudgens’ father, Greg, in 2016, just before she starred in Grease: Live. Hudgens announced his death on social media and dedicated her performance to him, showcasing her strength and resilience during such a difficult time. This emotional moment added depth to her journey on The Masked Singer, further confirming fans’ suspicions.
Hudgens’ experience on the show allowed her to explore a different side of her talents and showcase her passion for singing, something she loves deeply. While she became emotional during the finale, she expressed gratitude towards her mother for her support throughout the years. Her win on The Masked Singer marked a significant milestone in her career, providing her with the opportunity to connect with fans in a new way and surprise audiences with her hidden talent. The competition also brought a fun reunion with Porter, creating a moment of nostalgia for viewers who remembered their previous on-screen collaboration.
As the show concluded, Hudgens reflected on the impact of participating in The Masked Singer and how it allowed her to break free from expectations and simply enjoy performing. She expressed her happiness at finally being able to reveal her true identity and share special moments with the audience. Hudgens’ appearance on the show not only entertained fans but also gave her a platform to showcase her singing skills and connect with viewers in a unique and unexpected way. Her journey on The Masked Singer was one of growth, vulnerability, and ultimately triumph, leaving a lasting impression on both her and the audience.
