The Chase is a British television quiz show that first aired in 2009. It is best known for pairing ordinary contestants with highly skilled professional quizzers called "Chasers," who attempt to prevent players from winning a shared cash prize. The programme is presented by Bradley Walsh and has become a staple of ITV's quiz output.

Format and gameplay

The show follows a clear, repeatable structure. Individual contestants take part in a timed "cash-builder" round to accumulate money. Each then faces a one-on-one round against a Chaser: correct answers move the contestant toward safety, while incorrect answers allow the Chaser to close the gap. Surviving players join the Final Chase to defend their combined prize fund against the Chaser's answers.

Typical rounds include:

  • Cash-builder (individual speed questions)
  • The head-to-head round versus a Chaser
  • The Final Chase, where survivors work together

Chasers and editions

The show's distinctive feature is its roster of Chasers: expert quizzers often given nicknames and distinct personalities. Well-known regulars include Mark Labbett, Shaun Wallace, Anne Hegerty, Paul Sinha and others. The format has spawned celebrity specials, team and family editions and occasional primetime variations to accommodate different audiences. See more about the team of quizzers and special episodes at regular chasers.

Produced by ITV Studios' Potato, the series is broadcast on ITV and has been adapted internationally in several territories. There are also related formats and spin-offs that expand the core idea, such as multi-chaser matches and celebrity charity editions, referenced on the show's official pages and production notes at production details.

The Chase's straightforward rules, dramatic head-to-head moments and the personalities of the Chasers have contributed to its popularity and longevity. For official information, episode guides and presenter biographies, consult the programme's official site and broadcaster resources via The Chase and the presenter's pages like Bradley Walsh for more context and updates.

Additional resources and listings for international versions, notable matches and frequently asked questions can be found through the broadcaster and fan resources at ITV and production pages linked above. For details on the experts who compete as Chasers, see the profiles and career notes at regular chasers and the production archive at production details.