The Chase Around the World continued on ITV on Thursday evening, but not all viewers were pleased with its return. The spin-off, hosted by Bradley Walsh, features six pairs of contestants navigating cities such as Barcelona, solving puzzles and answering questions to reach the finish line. The final team faces Chasers Jenny 'The Vixen' Ryan and Darragh 'The Menace' Ennis.
Viewers criticise the format
Shortly after the broadcast began, viewers took to social media to express their frustration. One X user wrote: 'Never seen a TV show milked to death like The Chase... How can we do the show but also get paid to travel around the world with it? I've got an idea!' Another said: 'This is so dull. They should've just made a new series of Beat the Chasers.'
A third viewer commented: 'I've given The Chase Around the World an episode and a bit out of loyalty to The Chase, but it's just not doing it for me.' A fourth added: 'This is actually quite boring. Far too slow. I'm only sticking with it to see Barcelona!' Some labelled it a 'load of codswallop', while one asked: 'What idiot came up with this idea?'
Mixed reactions from fans
Despite the criticism, some viewers praised the fresh approach. One tweeted: 'Kinda got destination X vibes', while another said: 'I just finished watching, and obviously lots will be starting, so I won't spoil it. It was different, fun and still nail-biting! Really enjoyed that!'
Bradley Walsh had previously spoken about the new series, describing it as 'The Chase... but around the world!' He said: 'It was very different doing it on location, in these incredible places, instead of being in a studio. I've been locked in Elstree Studios for 17 years!' He added that the competition 'really heated up' and that contestants sometimes saw each other in the streets while getting clues.
The Chase Around the World continues Thursday at 9pm on ITVX.
