Anne Hegerty has made a rare, emotional admission about what truly keeps The Chase at the top of British TV — and it’s not the questions, the format, or even the Chasers themselves.
Speaking warmly at the TV Choice Awards, the 67-year-old quiz legend revealed that the show’s real “secret weapon” is its long-time host Bradley Walsh.
“You can come home from work, switch it on, and instantly know where you are,” Anne explained.
“But our absolute secret weapon is Bradley. It would not be the same without him.”
“Basically… it’s Bradley”
Anne, who has been part of The Chase since its launch in 2009, said Bradley’s warmth, humour and natural ease are what make the show feel welcoming — whether viewers are die-hard quiz fans or just tuning in casually after dinner.
“Basically, Bradley is the reason,” she said simply. “Then the format.”
It’s a sentiment many fans echoed online, with viewers agreeing that Bradley’s quick wit and gentle rapport with contestants — and the Chasers — are what make the show endlessly rewatchable.
Still chasing — and not slowing down
Despite being one of the longest-serving Chasers, Anne made it clear she has no plans to step away anytime soon.
She said she hopes to stay on the show “as long as possible,” pointing to legendary TV figures who commit fully to roles that become part of the nation’s daily routine.
For viewers who’ve grown up with her razor-sharp intellect and dry one-liners, it was welcome reassurance.
Reality TV? She’s not done yet 👀
Anne also teased future ambitions beyond the quiz studio. After her much-loved stint on I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here!, she admitted there’s another hit show firmly on her wishlist.
“I’d absolutely love to be a Celebrity Traitor,” she said — adding she’d say yes “in a heartbeat.”
What’s next for The Chase?
The ITV juggernaut shows no signs of slowing. Alongside the flagship show, a new travel-themed spin-off, The Chase: Around the World, is set to launch later this year — with Bradley Walsh once again at the helm.
For Anne, the winning formula remains unchanged:
smart questions, a loyal team… and a presenter who brings it all together.
And if her words are anything to go by, fans agree on one thing:
without Bradley Walsh, it just wouldn’t be The Chase. ❤️📺
