The Chase made its return to ITV with a fresh episode on Wednesday (19 March), but viewers were left underwhelmed by the latest instalment.
Bradley Walsh resumed his role as host of the beloved quiz show, welcoming participants Cesare, Colin, Dawn and Lara to challenge Anne Hegerty, also known as The Governess.
Colin was the first contestant to step up, choosing to play it safe with Anne’s modest £1,000 offer. His gamble paid off as he secured his place in the competition, delivering a commendable performance.
Lara was next, mirroring her teammate’s cautious strategy by taking the lower offer. Unfortunately, she was caught by Anne and eliminated from The Chase.
Dawn, the third player, also shunned the higher £5,000 sum in favour of the safer £1,000 option, which proved successful as she joined Colin in the final round, reports Bristol Live.
However, ITV audiences expressed dissatisfaction over the contestants’ tendency to opt for the lower offers, suggesting it detracted from the show’s appeal. Disgruntled fans took to social media to voice their opinions.
One viewer lamented on Twitter, now X: “Too many low offers being taken this series. Spoiling the show unfortunately. #thechase,” while another tweeted their frustration: “#TheChase hear we go again LOW, what a waste of time.”
Comments continued to pour in, with one person noting: “Player one going low again. #TheChase,” and another criticising the strategy: “Two players through with only £3,000 after taking the Low Offer! Should have stuck to buying Lottery Scratchcards! An absolute joke! #TheChase.”
Cesare, the last contestant to face The Chaser, boldly accepted Anne’s high offer of £87,000. After a successful cash builder round against Anne Hegerty, he brought an impressive £90,000 back to the team for the final chase, alongside teammates Dawn and Colin.
Social media users commended Cesare’s daring strategy, with one viewer posting on Twitter, now X: “Well done Cesare, thats what this game is all about! #thechase #nobottling,” while another tweeted their support: “Well done, Cesare #TheChase.”
Despite their efforts, the team ultimately couldn’t outpace Anne in the final chase and left empty-handed.
The Chase airs on weekdays at 5pm on ITV1