Paul Sinha, known as The Sinnerman on The Chase, has revealed that an embarrassing on-air moment years ago still haunts him, prompting him to change how he prepares for the ITV quiz show.
The 56-year-old, who joined the programme in 2011, discussed his preparation during an appearance on The Harry Hill Show podcast with fellow comedian and former medical professional Harry Hill, 62.
Admitting ignorance on air
After Harry asked what preparation Paul does for The Chase, Paul recalled: "Practically, try not to look ignorant, like old and ignorant. Years ago I said, 'I've never heard of John Legend' on The Chase, and it's haunted me ever since that I could appear on television as a quiz expert and not have heard of John Legend."
He added: "So the most important thing is to just keep up with the things that would make you look old if you reveal you don't know anything about it…I learn stuff every day, every afternoon, every evening."
When Harry asked if he puts "time aside" to learn, Paul replied: "No….Life's too short."
Behind the scenes of The Chase
This is not the first time Paul has spoken about life behind the scenes of The Chase. The former Taskmaster contestant has previously admitted that while he is competitive during the game, some aspects are harder than others.
In an interview with the Metro, he discussed his approach to contestants taking on the Chasers: "I don't mind if they win and it's close, but if I'm going to stop some real human beings winning money that could change their lives. I want it to be as uncontroversial as it's possible to be, because it's horrible. But for me, it's always hard watching the disappointment in their eyes as a large amount of money slips away. I'd much rather not a close thing."
However, Paul added that he will sometimes speak to contestants afterwards, particularly if all four players have won, but not if only one of them has lost.
