"I was so stunned" — The Masked Singer winner Gretchen Wilson, aka Pearl, reveals how she felt about her win

Gretchen Wilson, a country music icon well known for her 2004 hit song "Redneck Woman," has formally unmasked as The Masked Singer's Season 13 winner, Pearl.

No one was more surprised by her victory than Wilson herself, even though her powerful voice and heartfelt performances captivated judges and fans throughout the season.

“I was absolutely positive that Boogie won," she admitted. “I thought he was just the most amazing singer. In my head, he had won it weeks before. I was so stunned because I had myself ready to hear that I was second place. I was so ready for it, I had already decided that that's what it should be in my head.”

Wilson's emotional response during the finale demonstrated how unexpected the triumph was, and her disbelief was sincere.

Wilson's performances were notable for their emotional depth and vocal control, despite her early self-doubt. She brought to the stage as Pearl a distinct fusion of elegance and country grittiness, which struck a chord with the judges and audience.

In addition to helping her career, her experience on the show is evidence of the surprises reality TV still has to offer.

The Masked Singer Season 13 winner Gretchen Wilson wishes she could share the win

Gretchen Wilson's win on The Masked Singer Season 13 was a high point in her career, but it also evoked some surprising feelings. Behind the triumphant unveiling and the festive confetti, the country music icon was struggling with an unexpected sense of guilt.

Wilson acknowledges that, as a mother, her instincts took over when she discovered she had defeated Boogie, a fellow finalist for whom she had developed a sincere affection during the competition.

"But being a mom, I felt bad,” she reveals. “It was like, ‘No, no, no, no, no, no, I'm happy with second! He won!’ I think that's probably how he would've felt, too. He's just such an incredibly, incredibly likable person. I wished I could have shared it with him."

What made Wilson's appearance on The Masked Singer so memorable was his emotional candor. She remained grounded and genuine under the mask even though she was performing in a stunning Pearl costume.

Because of their mutual admiration for each other's abilities, friendly competition, and shared sensitivity, she and Boogie developed a friendship that went beyond the cameras.

Although Wilson's behind-the-scenes response showed a softer side, a woman motivated by empathy as well as ambition, fans still viewed her as a formidable performer. Her sincere response serves as a reminder that for many artists, finding success isn't the only goal; it's also about connection, friendship, and experiences that transcend trophies.

Trending

Stay tuned to watch season 14 of The Masked Singer on Fox in January 2026.

×

Was this article helpful?

Thank You for feedback