Fans of The Chase believe they spotted a tell-tale clue that the latest ITV episode was not as new as advertised. Viewers watching Bradley Walsh host the popular quiz show quickly noticed something familiar, pointing to his hairstyle as evidence that the episode had been filmed and aired previously.
Viewers spot repeat clue
The episode, which originally aired in 2024, featured contestants Spiro from Epsom, Brittany from Los Angeles, Louise from Cricklade and Tony from Carrickfergus. They faced Jenny Ryan, known as The Vixen, in the Final Chase, but viewers at home were quick to realise they had seen it before.
One viewer wrote: “This ain't new. @ITV what you are playing at? #TheChase” Another said: “Not the advertised episode. This is a repeat. #thechase” A third simply posted: “Repeat. #thechase” Another added: “This is a repeat #TheChase”
Bradley's hair gives game away
One viewer appeared to spot the giveaway before the episode began, writing: “The announcer just said, a brand new episode of the chase. Brad's Barnet will be the clue. #thechase”
The comments come amid growing frustration from some viewers over the number of repeat episodes being shown on ITV. Mark Labbett, known as The Beast, has previously responded to complaints about the show's scheduling after a fan questioned why ITV appeared to be holding back episodes that had already been filmed.
ITV cost-cutting measures
Labbett explained that repeats were “becoming the norm”, amid ITV's cost-cutting measures. He said: “If they weren’t showing repeats of The Chase, they would probably show repeats of something else.”
The Chaser has also previously indicated that there are plenty of episodes already filmed and waiting to be shown, meaning fans can expect more new instalments to eventually reach screens. It comes after ITV announced plans in 2025 to postpone some programmes and introduce cost-cutting measures following a significant decline in advertising revenue. The broadcaster said the changes would save £20 million, while insisting that no popular shows or jobs would be affected.
