ITV chiefs have reportedly put The Chase on hold for at least a year as host Bradley Walsh eyes up a presenting role on Strictly Come Dancing. According to The Sun, the unexpected decision will mean Chasers like Mark 'The Beast' Labbett and Anne 'The Governess' Hegerty will be out of pocket during the show's hiatus. This is because the professional brainiacs are paid for each episode they appear in.

It is understood that ITV bosses plan to screen repeats of the show, which has been airing for 17 years, over the next 12 months. A source told the publication: "Everyone found out a few weeks ago, and people on set were very miffed and upset as they'll be out of pocket. It's been quite a shock and very disappointing.

"Many crew members feel worried and scared for the future during an uncertain time in TV. It's a deeply unsettling time financially for everyone involved in The Chase. Surely loyal viewers will notice too if they're being fed repeat episodes.

"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." The studio usually aims to make 120 episodes a year in three blocks of filming across two months.

The latest batch wrapped up filming at Elstree Studios in Hertfordshire on Friday (April 10); however, there are no plans to resume filming until next April. When approached for a comment, an ITV spokesperson told us: "The Chase has just finished recording series 19, which completes its recording schedule for this year.

"ITV will continue to air The Chase as usual, with a combination of new and repeat episodes across the year. With more than 2.5million viewers per show, The Chase remains one of the nation's most loved quiz shows. There is also a new Beat the Chasers for 2026 and a brand new spin-off series, The Chase Around the World, coming soon."

The 65-year-old host is understood to have his own deal with ITV, which is not based on appearances. It comes after the broadcaster sent the rumour mill alight when he visited the Strictly set at Elstree, with the star appearing in a picture with the show's chief dressmaker, Theresa Hewlett, on social media.

It comes after Anne Hegerty admitted that she hoped ITV bosses would keep the current pool of six chasers so that it wouldn't affect their income as the show moves forward. Speaking to The Sun, she revealed: "We are paid per show, so we're not on a salary.

"A new Chaser would just mean the same number of shows shared between more people, so less money for everyone. So, I hope not. I like my money sitting in my bank and representing a bit of security. I don't see the point in sloshing money around. I'm not frugal, I'd actually say I'm mean."