Billy Ray Cyrus was unmasked as the Owl on the fourteenth season of The Masked Singer, bringing a surprising end to his run on the show on February 6, 2026. The singer, 64, performed “Achy Breaky Heart” immediately before his reveal, a fitting send-off for the country star.
A Spooky Tale Unfolds
The Owl’s journey on the singing competition was filled with cryptic clues and captivating performances. He first took the stage with a rendition of “Wild Thing” by The Troggs, securing a safe spot, and continued to impress audiences with “Ain’t No Sunshine” by Bill Withers. However, his time came to an end after performing Billy Idol’s “White Wedding” and ultimately being eliminated in a head-to-head “Vampire Royale” battle against the Stingray, where they performed Pat Benatar’s “Love Is a Battlefield.”
Clues Pointed to a Multi-Talented Star
Throughout his run, the Owl offered clues about his life and career. He described facing early criticism, finding success after a career shift, and a surprising connection to someone who helped him through a difficult time. He revealed he was once a right-handed baseball player who traded his glove for a different path, and that he shares a love of birdwatching with his current partner.
“’Twilight’ was packed with chemistry. I know a thing or two about that,” the Owl hinted, referencing a personal turning point and a relationship that blossomed unexpectedly.
Final Guesses and the Reveal
The judges offered a range of guesses as to the Owl’s identity. Robin Thicke suggested Kurt Russell, while Jenny McCarthy and Ken Jeong both leaned towards Ted Danson. Rita Ora proposed Dennis Quaid. Ultimately, the reveal confirmed the Owl was indeed Billy Ray Cyrus, born William Ray Cyrus on August 25, 1961, in Flatwoods, Kentucky.
A Look Back at the Owl’s Performances
| Week | Song Selection | Result |
|---|---|---|
| 2 | “Wild Thing” by The Troggs | SAFE |
| 5 | “Ain’t No Sunshine” by Bill Withers | SAFE |
| 6 | “White Wedding” by Billy Idol | ELIM |
| “Achy Breaky Heart” by Billy Ray Cyrus | UNMASKED |
The Owl’s weakness? Early morning alarms, a relatable struggle for anyone who isn’t a night owl.
