BBC Quiz Show ‘The Finish Line’ Gains Popularity, Challenging ITV’s ‘The Chase’
Popular ITV quiz program, The Chase, is reportedly facing competition from a rival show on the BBC. Devoted viewers of the Bradley Walsh-hosted program have expressed that they are “switching loyalties” to tune into the BBC’s The Finish Line instead.
New Series of ‘The Finish Line’ Airs on BBC One
Presenters Roman Kemp and Sarah Greene have returned to the BBC for a six-week run of the quiz show, airing weekdays at 4.30pm on BBC One and BBC iPlayer, since March 10. This third series of the acclaimed program features Kemp guiding contestants through a combination of racing and quiz elements, with Greene alongside.
Gameplay and Format of ‘The Finish Line’
Each episode sees participants engage in a series of qualifying rounds and head-to-head races for a chance to secure a cash prize. The game’s objective is straightforward: answer quickly and avoid finishing last to reach the finish line ahead of competitors. The program blends knowledge and speed, creating thrilling racing action characterized by close finishes and high tension.
Viewer Reactions and Shift in Preferences
As The Chase recently began broadcasting repeat episodes during a break from its latest series, some fans have reportedly “switched over” to the BBC alternative. One viewer posted on X/Twitter, stating: “I think The Finish Line on BBC 1 is a superior quiz than The Chase now #TheChase.”
Another viewer commented on social media: “The Finish Line is quite engaging on BBC, tired of ITV showing the same old content repeatedly week after week. All repeats! #thechase.”
A third viewer expressed: “#TheChase just been watching the quiz on bbc1..if The Chase doesn’t improve… I am switching loyalties!”
Fans Express Disappointment Over ‘The Chase’ Repeats
The airing of repeats of The Chase over the past week, lacking fresh episodes featuring host Bradley Walsh and the team of Chasers – Mark Labbett, Shaun Wallace, Anne Hegerty, Paul Sinha, Jenny Ryan, and Darragh Ennis – has seemingly disappointed some fans. Certain viewers have indicated they will not watch until new episodes resume, anticipated to be in September.
Viewer Poll on Continuing to Watch Repeats
On March 20, coinciding with the series break from new episodes, a dissatisfied fan questioned other viewers on X/Twitter about their viewing intentions. They shared a poll with “yes” or “no” options, asking: “Today is the last episode of The Chase before it goes on a break. Will you be watching the repeats? #TheChase.”
A significant majority, reportedly 80 percent of respondents, answered no, suggesting they would be turning away from the generally popular ITV quiz show.