Bradley Walsh has been heavily linked with the presenting role for Strictly Come Dancing – and it’s claimed he could be available with reports suggesting The Chase has been “halted”. Bradley is a fan favourite on the quiz show but it has been reported there won’t be any new episodes made for at least a year.
And the apparent decision is said to have only been told to the programme’s roster of Chasers in the last few weeks. It’s claimed the likes of Mark “The Beast” Labbett and Anne “The Governess” Hegerty were told of the plan to show repeats rather than create new chases.
“It’s been quite a shock and very disappointing,” a source said. “Many crew members feel worried and scared for the future during an uncertain time in TV,” they went on.
There have been reports regarding The Chase’s filming schedule
Speaking to The Sun, the source continued: “It’s a shame as the show has survived for 17 years and remains one of the most popular quiz shows on telly. It’s won countless awards and is much loved.”
It’s thought there are usually around 120 episodes filmed each year. They are filmed in three separate stints with breaks in between, said to be around two months each time.
Despite the claims, ITV were keen to play down any issue. A spokesperson for the organisation told the Mirror: “The Chase has just finished recording series 19, which completes its recording schedule for this year.
“ITV continue to air The Chase as usual, with a combination of new and repeat episodes across the year. With over 2.5 million viewers per show, The Chase remains one of the nation’s most loved quiz shows.”
And the spokesperson’s comments could further appease any worried fans. They added: “There is also a new Beat the Chasers for 2026 and a brand new spin-off series: The Chase Around the World coming soon.”
Bradley, 65, has presented the popular show since 2009. And now he is heavily linked with the vacant position on Strictly, following Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman’s exit. He had called the role a “great gig” last year.
Bradley has been linked with replacing Tess and Claudia on Strictly(Image: CREDIT LINE:BBC/Ray Burmiston)
Despite the links, he tried to distance himself from the role earlier this year. He claimed it would “ruin” his weekends and went as far as detailing what a typical weekend looks like in a bid to show why he has no time for a role.
“Here’s a potted version of my winter weekends,” he explained. “I come home from the studio on a Friday, have dinner and watch I’m a Celebrity.” As he continued to map out his routine in a chat with the Radio Times, he went on: “On Saturday, I’ll watch the football results, have dinner and a pint, watch Strictly, then I’m a Celebrity, and flip back to the BBC for Match of the Day.
“On Sunday, I get up late, watch some Columbo, then the football, followed by the Strictly results, then I’m a Celebrity, and then Match of the Day. If I was to host Strictly, it would absolutely ruin my weekend.”