The mystery surrounding Strawberry Shortcake on The Masked Singer Season 12 is one of the most talked-about topics of the season. Since her debut, fans and panelists alike have been trying to uncover the identity of this sweet and talented contestant. However, a recent clue dropped during the Peanuts Night episode may have finally revealed the secret behind Strawberry Shortcake’s mask, leading many to believe that she is none other than AJ Michalka, one half of the musical duo Aly & AJ.
Strawberry Shortcake’s Journey on The Masked Singer
Strawberry Shortcake has captivated the Masked Singer audience with her powerful performances. Her journey began during the Who Are You Fest Night, where she impressed viewers with a rendition of “Slow Burn” by Kacey Musgraves. She continued to wow the panel with “Wrecking Ball” on Miley Cyrus Night and “I Hope You Dance” by Lee Ann Womack on Peanuts Night. On the Peanuts Night episode, Strawberry Shortcake went head-to-head in the Battle Royale against Sherlock Hound, delivering a stellar performance of Ed Sheeran’s “Shivers,” which helped her advance to the quarterfinals.
The Key Clue: Mouse Ears
In the most recent Peanuts Night episode, Strawberry Shortcake revealed a clue that could unlock her true identity: a pair of mouse ears. She explained, “Well, mouse ears were instrumental in how I got my start.” This statement immediately sparked speculation about a Disney connection. AJ Michalka, famous for her role on the Disney Channel’s Cow Belles alongside her sister Aly, is known for her early career in Disney films, making this clue a strong indicator that she is the one behind the mask.
Additionally, the stuffed cow in the clue package, dressed in a pink skirt, seemed to hint at the Michalka sisters’ roots in the Disney universe, where they first rose to fame. This connection between Strawberry Shortcake’s clue and AJ’s career was further solidified during Miley Cyrus Night, where Miley’s own Disney Channel background, including her role in Hannah Montana, was highlighted. Interestingly, Aly & AJ once opened for Miley during her 2008 Best of Both Worlds Tour, reinforcing the Disney connection.
More Clues That Point to AJ Michalka
Several other clues have pointed towards AJ Michalka’s identity as Strawberry Shortcake. One significant hint is the presence of AJ’s The Goldbergs co-star Hayley Orrantia as the Masked Ambassador for Strawberry Shortcake. AJ and Hayley played best friends on The Goldbergs, and they are close friends in real life. The two also collaborated on the Goldbergs Mixtape album, further linking AJ to the show and Hayley’s role as a Masked Singer contestant in Season 7.
Another clue from Who Are You Fest Night mentioned that Strawberry Shortcake had performed at music festivals, which aligns with Aly & AJ’s own history of performing at major music festivals, such as Lollapalooza and Austin City Limits Festival.
In addition, Strawberry Shortcake was seen with a stuffed cat during a clue reveal, which could reference AJ’s voice role as Catra in the animated series She-Ra and the Princesses of Power. AJ also starred in the CW series Hellcats, further tying her to this musical-themed clue.
The Apple of My Eye: AJ’s Connection to Miley Cyrus
A key moment from Miley Cyrus Night featured a red apple, a clue that directly references AJ’s role in the 2017 film Apple of My Eye. This clue also echoed AJ’s shared history with Miley Cyrus, as both women dated Jonas Brothers members—AJ was once in a relationship with Joe Jonas, while Miley dated Nick Jonas. These shared connections between AJ and Miley only add more weight to the theory that Strawberry Shortcake is AJ Michalka.
Family and Career Clues
Strawberry Shortcake also mentioned that her mother had once been a singer but struggled with stage fright. This resonates with AJ’s own family history. AJ’s mother, Carrie, was involved in music, performing with the Christian rock band JC Band, further linking AJ to this clue.
The Panel’s Guesses
While the panelists have made various guesses regarding Strawberry Shortcake’s identity, including Reneé Rapp, Hilary Duff, and Hailee Steinfeld, the clues overwhelmingly suggest that AJ Michalka is the celebrity behind the mask. As Strawberry Shortcake continues her journey in The Masked Singer Season 12, it will be exciting to see if the panelists can finally connect the dots and unmask her true identity.
Conclusion
With each new performance, the clues pointing to AJ Michalka as Strawberry Shortcake become more compelling. From her Disney connections to her musical career and family ties, all signs seem to be leading to this talented actress and singer. As The Masked Singer progresses, fans will be on the edge of their seats, waiting for the big reveal that may confirm AJ Michalka’s identity once and for all.
