The Chase star Mark Labbett has disclosed his fear of developing deep vein thrombosis (DVT) while filming the upcoming ITV spin-off series The Chase Around the World. The 6ft 7in quizmaster, known as The Beast, shared his travel struggles in an interview with The Times, highlighting the risks he faces during long-haul flights.
Travel Challenges for the Tall Chaser
Labbett explained that his height makes travel particularly uncomfortable. After a flight back from Paris, his legs were “in a tangle,” and he was so stiff that a passport control officer asked if he needed assistance. “I thought, ‘Am I walking that badly?’ I took one look in the mirror and thought, ‘Yes I am,’” he recalled.
For longer journeys, such as those to film the Australian version of The Chase, Labbett has a contractual requirement for business-class seating. “And even then I have to get up and walk around or I might get DVT and die,” he said. DVT, or deep vein thrombosis, is a blood clot typically forming in the leg, which can be life-threatening if it travels to the lungs.
The Chase Around the World Format
The six-part series features six pairs of contestants attempting to locate all six Chasers—Mark Labbett, Anne Hegerty, Jenny Ryan, Shaun Wallace, Darragh Ennis, and Paul Sinha—in undisclosed global destinations. The winning pair earns a life-changing cash prize. Host Bradley Walsh announced the show on Instagram, stating: “The Chase is going global. Six chasers, six pairs of contestants and one epic chase.”
Walsh added in a separate statement: “This bold new take on The Chase combines quizzing with travelling and will test contestants’ knowledge like never before. The Chasers are already famous around the world, so fans can look forward to seeing them ply their trade in some superb secret locations.”
Labbett’s Health Journey
Beyond travel issues, Labbett has been open about his health. Diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes in 2017, he underwent a significant weight loss transformation. He revealed he weighed around 29 stone at his peak and now weighs approximately 18 stone. His regimen includes increased physical activity, smaller portions, reduced sugar and refined carbohydrates, and a higher-protein diet.
The Chase Around the World airs on 16 July on ITV1 and ITVX.
