Summary

• The Masked Singer season 11's Clock was unmasked during the semifinals and revealed to be legendary singer Thelma Houston.
• The Masked Singer season 11 panelists guessed that Clock might've been many different singing legends, but only Rita Ora was able to guess Thelma correctly.
• Before Clock was unmasked, the Masked Singer panelists made their final guesses for her identity, including Stephanie Mills (Robin Thicke), Roberta Flack (Jenny McCarthy-Wahlberg), Janet Jackson (Ken Jeong), and Thelma Houston (Rita Ora).

The Masked Singer season 11 featured Clock as one of its 16 mystery celebrity contestants, and she was unmasked during the semifinals and revealed to be legendary singer Thelma Houston. The Masked Singer season 11 welcomed Rita Ora to the panel while original panelist Nicole Scherzinger was starring in London's West End production of Sunset Boulevard. Rita joined fellow panelists Robin Thicke, Jenny McCarthy-Wahlberg, and Ken Jeong. In addition, Nick Cannon returned as the host of the mystery celebrity singing competition show. Throughout the competition, Thelma gave some sensational performances as Clock, but her identity stumped the panelists until Rita guessed her at the very end.

The Masked Singer season 11 Group C contestants included Clock, Poodle Moth (Chrissy Metz), Lizard (Sisqó), Spaghetti & Meatballs (Joe Bastianich), and Wild Card Sir Lion (Billy Bush). During the Group C finals on Shower Anthems Night, Clock moved on to the quarterfinals along with Poodle Moth, who was saved when Rita rang the Ding Dong Keep It On Bell. However, Poodle Moth was eliminated during the quarterfinals and revealed to be Chrissy. During the semifinals, Goldfish and Gumball moved on to the season finale, while Clock was unmasked and revealed to be Thelma. Here are the clues that proved that Clock was Thelma.

Clock’s Billy Joel Night Performance & Clues

During The Masked Singer season 11 Billy Joel Night, Clock sang "Piano Man." When Clock came out on stage, Jenny said that she was "obviously a queen of some sort" because of the way she walked, and she said that she was "getting diva vibes." Robin agreed. Clock's clue package began in a Watch & Clock Maker shop. Clock said, "I'm delighted being here on Billy Joel Night. Because, let's face it, we're both timeless."

Clock went on to say, "Once upon a time, I was the belle of the ball." A silver disco ball was then shown, as Clock spun around. Clock continued, "I had the whole world dancing from dusk 'til dawn." She then picked up a crying and giggling baby doll from a bassinet. Clock added, "Everyone knew my name. But, as the years passed, trends started to change, and I suddenly felt like I was becoming frozen in time." A frozen clock was then shown, and Clock froze in ice.

The sun came out, and Clock said, "So, this queen reinvented herself," as the ice on the clock broke. She continued, "And I achieved massive success again on my own terms, with the crowning achievement of performing for a president." At that point, Clock spun a golden globe. The Masked Singer season 11 contestant then played some notes on a piano while she said, "Now, like the Piano Man says, 'I'm gonna sing you a song tonight.' So all you other singers better watch out because your time's about to be up!"

After Clock's performance, another clue was revealed about her identity. Nick announced that the song was the clue, as one of the Men in Black played "Vienna" by Billy Joel on a piano. Clock explained, "Well, Vienna is all about seizing the day, and I actually have a date in my name." After the audience vote, Clock moved on to the next round.

Clock's TV Theme Night Performance & Clues

During The Masked Singer season 11 TV Theme Night, Clock sang "Good Times," the theme song from Good Times. Clock began her clue package with a recap of her Masked Singer season 11 Billy Joel Night performance. She said, "I had the time of my life singing on Billy Joel Night, and I'm making every second count on this stage." The scene then changed to Clock working in the Watch & Clock Maker shop. As she fixed a clock, she said, "In my life, I've had my fair share of ups and downs. Just like any good TV series, I've laughed, and I've cried." Framed photographs of Clock laughing and crying were then shown.

Clock continued, "And, thank goodness, I've always been renewed." A framed newspaper with the headline, "Clock Renewed! It's always her time to shine," was then shown. As a map of the Mississippi River Trail was shown, she said, "But I think it's my positive outlook that's carried me season to season." As Clock said this, she traced the river on the map with her finger.

Clock then moved outside to a forest, where she shook a pink piggy bank. She said, "When I was broke, hey, I appreciated the free things in life. When my car didn't start, what a beautiful day for a walk!" A car motor was then shown. Clock added, "And even though my marriages didn't work out, something great came from those relationships: my beautiful children." A photograph of Clock with a young girl clock and a young boy clock was then shown.

Clock concluded by saying, "I've learned there will always be good times and bad. And now, let's keep the good times rolling all the way to the Group C finale." After her performance, another clue was revealed about Clock. The Love Boat star Jill Whelan brought out a model of the ship. Clock explained, "Well, love and boat ... two things that combine to make a hit. Something I know firsthand." Clock was then voted into the next round by the audience.

Clock's Shower Anthems Night Performances & Clues

The Masked Singer season 11 Shower Anthems Night began with the Group C finalists, Clock, Poodle Moth, and Lizard, singing "Shower" by Becky G. For her competition performance, Clock sang a spectacular version of "Respect" by Aretha Franklin. Her clue package began with a recap of her TV Theme Night performance of "Good Times." She said, "TV Theme Night was such a good time. I'm honored to be in the Group C finale because, in my line of work, we love a curtain call." Clock laughed as she added, "In this case, a shower curtain call."

Clock's clue package took place in a mansion decorated in pink. When asked what she usually sings in the shower, Clock answered, "There's something about the shower that gives me the courage to belt out the biggest diva hits of all-time. And, let me tell ya, I've been amongst them." Clock then took a t-shirt with the word "SWEET" in a heart printed on it out of an armoire. She continued, "You see, I was nominated for one of the most prestigious awards against some legendary ladies, Queen Aretha and Natalie Cole." Clock then cleaned a gold record with a pink rag, which showed Aretha Franklin and Natalie Cole's faces.

Clock went on to say, "I didn't think I'd win, so I stayed home and spent the evening literally scrubbing the kitchen floor." An alarm clock was then shown with the words, "WAKE:UP" where the time should be, and a decoration on top. Clock declared, "And then, I won! I actually won! And I gave my acceptance speech to the mop, instead of millions." She then held a mop as she marveled, "Can you imagine?! So, take it from Aretha, when it's your time to shine, you better show up and respect yourself!"

After Clock's performance, another clue was given to help figure out her true identity, which was the Masked Singer cast member to whom she was connected. The clue was a rubber ducky that said, "Nick," on the bottom of it, revealing that Clock has a connection to The Masked Singer host. She explained, "Well, Nicholas, this isn't the first time you've hosted me." Nick said that clearly they knew each other.

Later in the episode, Clock went head-to-head with Poodle Moth in the Battle Royale, after Lizard was unmasked and revealed to be Sisqó. They both sang amazing versions of "Ain't No Mountain High Enough" by Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell. Clock became the Group C champion and made it through to the quarter-finals, which meant that Poodle Mask would be unmasked. However, Rita rang the Ding Dong Keep It On Bell, so Poodle Moth also advanced to the quarterfinals, concealing her true identity.

Clock's Quarterfinals Performance & Clues

During The Masked Singer season 11 quarterfinals, Clock sang a sensational version of "Get On Your Feet" by Gloria Estefan, which included some spectacular dancing. Her clue package featured scenes from her previous performances, a scene of her sitting at a piano with sheet music on it, and footage from her quarterfinals rehearsal without her full costume on, but with her face covered. Clock began by saying, "It's incredible to be in the quarterfinals as the Group C champion! And winning against all these young whippersnappers still has this clock in shock."

Clock continued by saying, "When I was younger, everyone loved hearing me sing until I told them I wanted to do it for a living. Suddenly, it was all, 'What?! Are you crazy?!'" She explained, "You see, I was a young mother, and most concerned was my own mom. She said, 'How are you gonna take care of these kids AND sing at nightclubs?'"

Clock went on to say, "But that all changed when she saw me sing one night. She was mesmerized. And from that moment on, it was a family affair. She helped out where she could, and now, my son actually works with me on tour. And I've been able to stay on my feet for all these years because of their support." Clock concluded by saying, "Now tonight, I plan to get you on your feet. Because this clock is ticking for a spot in the semifinals."

After Clock's performance, another clue was given about her performance. A giant Clock-decorated rotary telephone was brought out. When Clock answered it, her son's voice said, "Hi mom! You never cease to amaze me. I've seen you perform thousands of times. I know you're nervous tonight, but, remember, you performed for the Pope. Ken Jeong should be a piece of cake. Good luck!" Clock cried as she said, "Oh my God! That was my son?! Oh my God, oh! Oh, sorry!" Clock was later voted into the semifinals by the audience.

Clock's Semifinals Performances & Clues

During The Masked Singer season 11 semifinals "Road to the Finale" episode, Clock dedicated her performance to her family. She said that there's absolutely nothing more important to her in life than her family. She explained that they celebrate together, cry together, and even work together. Clock added that the song was not only for them, but for her new Masked Singer family. She sang a lively version of "We Are Family" by Sister Sledge. The performance also included a recap of Clock's journey on the show so far, and showcased her incredible vocal range.

Clock then reviewed her clues from the season so far. She also gave another clue about her identity, which was a black cat walking through grass. Clock explained, "A stitch in time saves nine ... lives. Are you 'feline' better about who I am? Clock's ticking!"

During the competition part of The Masked Singer semifinals episode, Clock, Gumball, and Goldfish sang "Higher Love" by Kygo and Whitney Houston together. Clock later sang a spirited rendition of "Dancing in the Street" by Martha and the Vandellas. In her clue package, Clock explained what being her Masked Singer character has meant to her. She said, "Standing here in the semifinals has been a total statement for me because, well, I'm not as young as I used to be. But becoming the clock has been so fun. It's reminded me, after all these years, Mama's still got it."

Clock added, "But it's also been a challenge. When I was younger, I had stage fright so badly my knees would knock together under my gospel robe. I had to learn how to connect with the audience through eye contact and a smile. And now, this mask takes all that away. So I've had to connect in other ways. This dress was not made for moving, but that doesn't stop me." Clock concluded by saying, "See, I wanted to do Masked Singer to introduce myself to a whole new generation. And to make it this far is a real treat. So, now, I'm going to be singin', dancin', and twerkin' my way into the finale."

After Clock's performance, a superclue was given about her identity. A pyramid of gold bars was brought out on stage. Clock explained, "This isn't the first stage show that I have done, and every performance has been solid gold, baby!" Jenny then pushed the Prime button to reveal another clue about Clock, which was a pair of roller skates. Clock said, "I like those skates, Jenny."

Clock, Goldfish, and Gumball then competed in a final, three-way Battle Royale, during which they all sang their own incredible versions of "A Moment Like This" by Kelly Clarkson. After the audience and panelists voted, Goldfish and Gumball moved on to the season finale, while Clock was unmasked and revealed to be Thelma Houston.

Clock’s Identity Predictions From The Masked Singer Panelists

During Billy Joel Night, The Masked Singer season 11 panelists had some great guesses for Clock. Jenny guessed that she might be Anita Baker, and Ken agreed. Robin said that the disco clue was guiding him, and he guessed Evelyn "Champagne" King. Then Ken theorized that Clock might be Diana Ross.

During TV Theme Night, the panelists once again guessed some singing legends for Clock's true identity. Robin chose Stephanie Mills, while Jenny guessed Debbie Allen. Ken thought that Clock might be Janet Jackson, but his guess was met with boos by the audience. The panelists completely disagreed, so he went back to his original guess of Diana Ross.

On Shower Anthems Night, Jenny used the clue about Nick knowing Clock to make some guesses. She wondered if she was someone he'd hosted on his talk show, such as Tina Knowles or Sheila E., but the clues kept bringing her back to Debbie Allen. Nick said that he's very close with Debbie, and she's like family to him. Rita said that Clock was probably a disco diva, so she guessed Deniece Williams, while Ken stuck with his original guess of Diana Ross.

During the Masked Singer season 11 quarterfinals, Robin again chose Stephanie Mills for Clock's identity, while Jenny guessed Sister Sledge members Kathy, Debbie, or Kim. Rita and Ken loved that guess. However, Rita added that she thought that Clock might be Dame Shirley Bassey.

During the semifinals, Robin continued to guess Stephanie Mills, while Jenny went with Roberta Flack. However, Rita correctly guessed that she was Thelma Houston. Before Clock was unmasked, the Masked Singer panelists made their final guesses for her identity, including Stephanie Mills (Robin), Roberta Flack (Jenny), Janet Jackson (Ken), and Thelma Houston (Rita). Rita was the only panelist who guessed Thelma correctly, and it took until her final performance for anyone to figure out who she was.

The Masked Singer's Clock Is Singer Thelma Houston

Rita's guess of legendary singer Thelma Houston was correct. Clock's voice and clues were pointing in her direction all season. Thelma is from Leland, Mississippi, which explains the Mississippi River clue. She was part of the Art Reynolds Singers gospel group, which explains the gospel robe clue. She once worked with Motown Records, which would explain the motor clue because Motown is located in Detroit, which is known as "Motor City." Thelma is divorced and has two children, Rodney and Kimberlynn. She was a mother of two before the age of 20. Her son, Rodney, is also a singer. He has performed with her and was featured on her 2019 single, "I Still Love You."

Thelma had a huge hit in the 1970s with "Don't Leave Me This Way." In fact, she won the 1978 Grammy Award for Best R&B Vocal Performance, Female for the song. She was nominated for the award along with Aretha Franklin and Natalie Cole. Thelma has said in the past that, after losing at the Grammy Awards three years earlier, she wasn't sure how she'd respond if they didn't say her name, so she stayed home. She was mopping the kitchen floor when she got the call that she'd won. Thelma admitted that not receiving the Grammy Award in person is the biggest regret that she has in her career. She confirmed that the story was true after she was unmasked.

Thelma has performed at the Golden Globe Awards. In addition, she performed for President Barack Obama in 2009 at the Out for Equality Ball, which was part of his inauguration festivities. In 1995, she performed with the Sisters of Glory for Pope John Paul II in Vatican City. She also has a day named in her honor. In 2003, the City of West Hollywood proclaimed January 29 as Thelma Houston Day for her charitable causes and efforts in the battle against AIDS.

Also, Thelma has performed on the Soul Train and Soul at Sea cruises, which explains the boat clues. In addition, Thelma sang "Don't Leave Me This Way" during the America's Got Talent season 4 finale results show, which was hosted by Nick Cannon. This explains her connection to him. Thelma also appeared on the television show Solid Gold. In addition, the black cat might refer to her album, Breakwater Cat. Also, Thelma's songs have been roller disco classics, which would explain the roller skates clue.

The Masked Singer season 11's Clock's performances proved that she was obviously a singing legend. The voice and the clues all pointed to Thelma, but it took until her final performance for Rita to finally guess her. It was amazing to see her grace the Masked Singer stage with her incredible presence. Thelma gave showstopping performances that earned her a spot in the semifinals. She ended her Masked Singer run with a triumphant unmasked performance of her hit song, "Don't Leave Me This Way," singing and dancing with joy. Time might've been up for Clock, but Thelma raised the bar for future performers on The Masked Singer, and she'll always be remembered.

The Masked Singer season 11 airs Wednesdays at 8 p.m. EDT on FOX.

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