The Masked Singer UK's Ken Jeong replaced by BAFTA-winning comedian Mo Gilligan

British comedian Mo Gilligan will replace Ken Jeong as a panelist on The Masked Singer UK.

The hit ITV entertainment show will return for a second series later this year with host Joel Dommett and panelists Davina McCall, Rita Ora and Jonathan Ross.

However, due to current travel restrictions as a result of the coronavirus pandemic, panelist Ken Jeong will not be returning in a regular role on the series.

Instead BAFTA-winning comic and Celebrity Gogglebox favourite Mo Gilligan will take Ken's place on the show.

Mo Gilligan said: "It’s a real privilege to be joining The Masked Singer team.

"It’s one of the funniest shows out there and I’m really proud to play my small part to help bring a little bit of joy to the nation.

"I can’t wait to join Jonathan, Rita, Davina, Joel and hopefully Ken! Now…let’s get cracking."

Mo Gilligan announced as a panelist on The Masked Singer UK series two (BBC/Yoshitaka Kono)

Meanwhile, departing panelist Ken Jeong also gave a statement about his departure and possible return in

Ken said: "I had so much fun on season 1 of The Masked Singer UK, I told the team nothing short of a global pandemic would stop me from coming back for Season 2!

"I am gutted because I truly love working with Joel, Rita, Davina, Jonathan and everyone at Bandicoot and ITV.

"I hope when things start to normalize I can return and offer my expertise on all things British, like the Australian Open.

"Please take care, be safe, and as the title of the show suggests, wear a mask."

Ken Jeong will not return as a full-time judge in the next series (ITV)

Davina McCall, Ken Jeong, Jonathan Ross and Rita Ora were the panelists of the first series (ITV)

A potential return for Ken in the second series was also hinted at by ITV.

Katie Rawcliffe, Head of Entertainment at ITV said: "Mo Gilligan is a fantastic talent that is going to bring a fresh new energy to the show and really complement our much-loved returning panel.

"We’re delighted to have him on the show and to welcome Davina, Rita, Jonathan and Joel back.

"We adore Ken, of course, and hope he can make an appearance or two in this next series."

Nicola Roberts won the first series of the UK version (ITV)

The first series of The Masked Singer UK consolidated with 6.6m viewers and a 32% share and was the biggest new format launch on any channel.

Girls Aloud singer Nicola Roberts was crowned the winner at the end of the first run.

The Masked Singer UK returns later this year.

What do you think of Mo Gilligan replacing Ken Jeong on The Masked Singer UK? Let us know in the comments below.