The Chase Around the World launched this week on ITV, with The Chasers experiencing their first loss in the spin-off series. Bradley Walsh presents the new gameshow, which blends elements of The Chase with the BBC's Race Across The World format.
Format and Premiere
The show features six pairs of participants starting their opening leg in Rome, racing through the city toward the finishing point. They must solve puzzles and answer questions along the route, with accuracy essential for reaching each checkpoint. The final team faces Bradley at the end, where they compete against Chasers Mark Labbett and Anne Hegerty.
Viewer Reactions
Moments into the broadcast, viewers voiced a recurring criticism. One X user posted: "This version of #TheChase is painful. @ITV in future please stick to tried, tested and very successful version of #TheChase. #ChaseAroundTheWorld." Another agreed: "Really not sure about this #ChaseAroundtheWorld." A third commented: "Not sure about this #chasearoundtheworld programme. The attraction of #thechase or #beatthechasers is that you can play along at home. Whilst you can do that in this too there's too much time in between questions and why would I wanna watch people running around Rome." Another suggested: "If you're going to bother with this, record it and whizz through the adverts (and most of the cobblers). #chasearoundtheworld #thechase." A fifth observer remarked: "This race around the world is a very original idea for a TV programme - Sorry, I meant to say Chase around the world... #chasearoundtheworld."
Positive Feedback
Others commended the fresh approach. One viewer posted: "Kinda got destination X vibes #chasearoundtheworld." Another enthused: "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!"
The Chase Around the World returns Thursday at 9pm on ITVX.
