ITV's flagship quiz show The Chase was plunged into controversy last night as viewers unleashed a torrent of fury on social media, branding it one of the 'worst episodes ever' broadcast.
The usually smooth-running show, helmed by the unflappable Bradley Walsh, descended into chaos as a team of four contestants put on a performance that left fans screaming at their screens in disbelief. The episode quickly became a masterclass in how not to play the game.
A Series of Unfortunate Events
From the very first cash-builder round, the signs were ominous. Contestants stumbled through questions, offering a string of baffling incorrect answers that suggested they had perhaps wandered onto the wrong set. The situation failed to improve as they faced The Chaser, with their tactical decisions leaving seasoned viewers utterly perplexed.
Social media platforms, particularly X (formerly Twitter), became the epicentre of the backlash. One exasperated viewer posted: 'Actually screaming at the telly. This is painful to watch. #TheChase', a sentiment echoed by hundreds of others who flooded the platform with similar complaints.
Bradley Walsh's Stoic Presence
Through it all, host Bradley Walsh battled valiantly to maintain his trademark professionalism and good humour. His valiant attempts to encourage the team and keep the show's momentum going were widely noted, with many fans expressing sympathy for the presenter who was handed an impossible task.
Another viral post captured the national mood, stating: 'Bradley Walsh deserves a medal for getting through this episode without face-palming. This is next-level terrible. #TheChase'. The hashtag quickly began trending as the nation united in its shared frustration.
The dramatic reaction underscores the passionate following the daytime quiz has cultivated. For many, it is a beloved daily ritual, making a substandard episode feel like a personal affront. Last night's broadcast will undoubtedly go down in the show's history, but for all the wrong reasons.