Fans of The Chase were left concerned after Jenny Ryan shared photos revealing a noticeable scar across the front of her neck—but the beloved quiz star has reassured everyone that she’s recovering well after undergoing major surgery.
The 44-year-old TV personality, best known as “The Vixen” on ITV’s hit quiz show, took to social media to explain the reason behind her recent absence and the visible scar that many followers had already noticed.
“You might notice my new scar,” Jenny joked. “You’d be hard pushed to not spot it, given it’s right on the front of my neck.”
She then revealed that she had undergone surgery to remove her thyroid after the gland became significantly enlarged and began causing health problems.
“My thyroid gland made a bid for fame and got so big it started causing some problems, so we chopped it out,” she explained with her trademark sense of humour.
Thankfully, the operation was a success.
Jenny reassured fans that she’s recovering well, adding that her consultant was pleased with the outcome.
“I’m fine. Surgery was all good and the consultant was very happy. My voice still works and it’s healing nicely.”
Her comment about her voice came as welcome news to fans, who know Jenny not only for her incredible quiz knowledge but also for her impressive singing performances over the years.
The television favourite also took time to express her gratitude to the medical team who cared for her during her hospital stay.
“Thanks to the head and neck gang and all the terrific people who looked after me at UCH. The NHS is beyond wonderful,” she wrote.
Her update quickly sparked an outpouring of support from viewers and fellow fans.
“So glad you’re okay and happy to hear your voice is fine,” one fan commented.
Another shared their own experience with thyroid surgery, reassuring Jenny that the scar would gradually fade over time.
“I had my thyroid removed in my 30s and you can hardly see the scar now,” they wrote.
Many others wished her a smooth recovery, encouraging her to take all the time she needs before returning to television.
Jenny’s health update comes shortly after fellow The Chase star Anne Hegerty revealed that the ITV quiz show is currently taking a short filming break.
According to Anne, the production has already built up hundreds of episodes, giving the cast a rare opportunity to pause filming after an exceptionally busy schedule that also included two series of Beat the Chasers last year.
While viewers may have to wait a little longer for new episodes, Jenny’s latest update has reassured fans that she’ll be back doing what she does best once she’s fully recovered.


