‘As If!’ The Masked Singer’s Clueless Night Proves ’90s Themes Are Dominating 2026 TV – What’s Next for Season 14?
The Masked Singer Season 14 is leaning hard into nostalgia, and Wednesday’s “Clueless Night” episode was the ultimate proof.
Celebrating the 30th anniversary of the beloved ’90s teen comedy Clueless, the night delivered plaid outfits, iconic vibes, a killer group opener with “Kids in America,” and that signature mix of fun and fierce competition. With judges decked out in berets and yellow plaid, and contestants channeling the era’s energy, it felt like a full-on revival — and fans ate it up.
The episode balanced throwback joy with real stakes: the debut of the season’s first wildcard Crane, who slayed Whitney Houston’s “It’s Not Right But It’s Okay” with ’90s-tied clues sparking wild guesses (Misty Copeland? Mya? Ashanti?), plus a shocking double elimination that sent ’90s rap legend Tone Loc (Handyman) and Oscar nominee Taraji P. Henson (Scarab) home.
The brutal twist — combined with spot-on performances like Scarab’s “Girls Just Want to Have Fun” — showed how ’90s nostalgia isn’t just window dressing; it’s fueling drama and massive viewer engagement.
This isn’t a one-off. 2026 TV is obsessed with ’90s throwbacks, and The Masked Singer is leading the charge. The season’s themed episodes are packed with pop culture tributes that tap into retro fever — think reboots, anniversaries, and millennial/Gen Z love for the era’s music, movies, and icons.
“Clueless Night” nailed it by blending ’90s flair (group number, costume nods) with high-stakes reveals, proving these themes keep audiences hooked in a crowded TV landscape.
What’s next for Season 14? More nostalgia overload is on the way. Upcoming themed nights include:
- Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Night — Pizza-loving heroes, ’80s/’90s cartoon energy, and likely some turtle-powered performances.
- The Twilight Saga Night — Vampire romance vibes, brooding ballads, and epic love-story clues.
- Spice Girls Night — Girl power anthems, zig-a-zig-ah energy, and probably plenty of “Wannabe” energy.
- Care Bears Night — Colorful, feel-good nostalgia with cuddly costumes and uplifting songs.
- Plus specials like Star Trek Night (sci-fi 60th anniversary nods) and an Ozzfest tribute honoring Ozzy Osbourne with daughter Kelly Osbourne (a former Mask alum).
These themes keep the season fresh, unpredictable, and deeply tied to fan-favorite franchises. With wildcards still in play and more double eliminations possible, Season 14 is building to a nostalgic climax.
“Clueless Night” wasn’t just a fun trip down memory lane — it highlighted why ’90s themes are everywhere in 2026 TV: they spark joy, drive buzz, and deliver emotional punches. As if we needed more proof this season is iconic. What’s your most anticipated upcoming theme?