ITV's hit quiz show The Chase has found itself in the eye of a social media storm after a controversial moment during Tuesday's episode left viewers branding the programme 'patronising' and 'insulting'.
The fury erupted when Chaser Paul Sinha, known as The Sinnerman, made a shockingly low offer to contestant Chloe during the final chase round. Instead of a potential £9,000 prize, he presented her with a meagre £300 to take a step closer to home, a move that did not sit well with the audience.
Viewers Vent Their Fury on Social Media
Fans of the show immediately took to X (formerly Twitter) to express their disbelief and anger. One incensed viewer wrote: '£300? That's actually insulting. #TheChase', capturing the sentiment of many.
Another commented on the perceived condescension, stating: 'How patronising is that? An offer of just £300. #TheChase'. The general consensus was that the offer was not just low, but deliberately demeaning, with many calling it a 'pity offer' or a 'joke'.
A Strategic Play or a Step Too Far?
While the low offer is a tactical part of the game designed to tempt struggling contestants, viewers felt this particular instance crossed a line. The backlash highlights the fine line the show's producers must walk between creating tense television and maintaining respect for its participants.
Host Bradley Walsh presided over the tense moment, which ultimately saw the team defeated. The incident has sparked a wider debate about the format's treatment of contestants and what constitutes a fair, if strategically weak, offer.
