Bradley Walsh has hosted The Chase ever since the ITV game show first appeared on telly screens in 2009. It’ll be no different tonight (Saturday, December 21), when he hosts the show’s Christmas special either.
The beloved presenter, 64, is one of TV’s most in-demand figures of recent years. Indeed, it seems impossible to consider The Chase ever being fronted by anyone else but Bradley.
Nonetheless, he has previously addressed eyeing up retirement from TV.
And some of the Chasers have previously speculated about what the future of programme might look like without Bradders.
Bradley Walsh on The Chase
Earlier this year, Mark Labbett indicated to the Mirror he and his fellow Chasers ‘worry’ about the impact of filming commitments on Bradley.
That’s because up to 200 episodes are recorded every year.
‘The Beast’ said at the time: “Our biggest worry is Bradley being 63 now. Every month, we’re going, ‘You okay, Brad? How’s the health?’ Wrap him in bubble wrap! He’s so damn popular you’re more worried about what he signed up for now.”
Anne Hegerty on host’s ‘pension’
Meanwhile, in February 2023, Anne Hegerty told the Express website she finds it difficult to visualise The Chase without the popular presenter.
“It’s just I can’t imagine him being replaced!” she said at the time.
The Governess went on: “He once said to me ‘The Chase is my pension’ and I really do hope that he regards it that way and he has no plans to go anywhere.”
Anne also found it nearly impossible to consider who could fill Bradley’s slot.
Bradley is just an integral part of the whole show.
“I suppose I could think of a couple of names that might, but Bradley is just an integral part of the whole show and his rapport with the contestants, and with us,” she insisted.
Additionally, Jenny Ryan reflected in 2021 about how The Chase “wouldn’t be the same” without Bradley.
Appearing on Good Morning Britain, ‘The Vixen’ star said: “It would not be the same show without Bradley, he’s a fabulous host and I really enjoy working with him.”
Let’s hope Bradley sticks around for a good while yet.
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Read more: OPINION: 5 reasons why it’s time to retire Bradley Walsh from prime-time and bring in some new blood
The Chase Christmas special airs tonight (Saturday, December 21) from 5.30pm on ITV1 and ITVX.
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