In a heart-wrenching moment that has left millions of viewers reaching for the tissues, The Chase star Darragh Ennis broke down in floods of tears on live television as he finally opened up about the devastating loss of his beloved father to dementia – and the race against time to be by his side in his final moments.

The 44-year-old quiz genius, famously known as The Menace on the hit ITV show, appeared on Loose Women in January 2025 and delivered a raw, unfiltered interview that has since gone viral, with clips racking up millions of views and fans declaring it “the most emotional thing on daytime TV this year”.

Darragh, who had kept his grief largely private after his dad passed away in July 2024, admitted he was “broken inside” and revealed the gut-wrenching detail: “I barely made it home in time…” – a phrase that has struck a chord with anyone who has ever faced the agony of losing a parent to this cruel disease.

Here’s the full, tear-jerking story behind the moment that stopped the nation in its tracks…

From Quiz Master to Heartbroken Son: Darragh’s Hidden Battle

Darragh Ennis joined The Chase in 2020, quickly becoming a fan favourite with his quick wit, gentle Irish charm and razor-sharp intellect. Viewers adored watching him take on contestants in the high-stakes quiz arena, but few knew the personal storm raging behind the scenes.

For over 15 years, Darragh’s father had been battling dementia – a slow, heartbreaking decline that saw the once-vibrant man fade away bit by bit. Darragh had been quietly caring for him while juggling his demanding TV schedule, university lecturing career (he’s a physicist by training!) and family life.

Then, in July 2024, the end came suddenly.

Darragh later shared on Loose Women that despite the long illness, the final moments were unexpected. He described rushing home, heart pounding, desperate to be there. “I barely made it home in time…” he said, his voice cracking as tears welled up. He held his dad’s hand, looked into his eyes – and then, peacefully, his father took his last breath.

The studio fell silent. Panellists Ruth Langsford, Judi Love, Sally Dynevor and Kelle Bryan wiped away their own tears as Darragh fought to compose himself.

Here are the devastating shots from that unforgettable Loose Women appearance – you can see the raw pain in his eyes…

The Toll of Dementia: “It Only Goes in One Direction”

Darragh didn’t hold back when discussing the brutal reality of dementia. “The thing is, when someone has dementia and you know it only goes in one direction – it never gets better,” he explained. “I felt with my dad that I was watching him disappear in front of me for years.”

He revealed how the disease had slowly robbed his father of memories, personality and independence, turning a loving parent into someone Darragh barely recognised. Yet through it all, Darragh remained steadfast, balancing care duties with work and speaking openly to his own children about what was happening – something he believes is crucial.

“It was important for me to talk honestly with my kids,” he said. “Grief is crushing, and dementia is soul-destroying to watch in a parent. It’s like a ticking time bomb.”

Fans watching at home were left in pieces. Social media exploded with messages of support: “Darragh, you’re not alone – sending you the biggest hug”, “This is why we love him – so real and so brave”, and “Protect this man at all costs!”

Struggling to Film The Chase: “I Was Broken Inside and Didn’t Realise”

The grief didn’t stop when the cameras rolled. Darragh admitted that after his dad’s death, he struggled enormously to return to The Chase.

“I was broken inside and I didn’t realise,” he confessed on Loose Women. The high-pressure environment, the bright lights, the need to be sharp and quick-witted – it all felt overwhelming.

He took time off from filming, and the show’s producers offered counselling to help him cope. Darragh has since become an Ambassador for AtaLoss, a charity supporting those dealing with bereavement, using his platform to raise awareness about adult loss and the hidden struggles many face.

Here are some powerful images of Darragh in his element on The Chase – the smile that hid so much pain…

A Nation Rallies: Fans Flood Darragh with Love

The response to Darragh’s emotional interview has been overwhelming. Thousands have shared their own stories of losing loved ones to dementia, praising Darragh for his honesty.

“This man is a national treasure,” one viewer wrote. “To go through that and still show up every day with a smile – incredible strength.”

Others highlighted the importance of talking about grief: “Dementia doesn’t just take the person – it takes pieces of everyone who loves them. Thank you, Darragh, for shining a light on it.”

Darragh has been inundated with support from co-stars too. Bradley Walsh, Mark Labbett, Anne Hegerty, Shaun Wallace and the rest of the Chasers have all rallied around him, with the team described as “like family”.

Why Darragh’s Story Matters Now More Than Ever

In an age where celebrities often keep personal pain hidden, Darragh’s willingness to bare his soul has struck a deep chord. Dementia affects millions worldwide, and stories like his remind us of the human cost behind the statistics.

He’s now using his voice to advocate for better support for carers and those grieving. As an AtaLoss Ambassador, he’s helping others find resources and community during their darkest times.

“AtaLoss has been a huge help to me, and it can help you in your bereavement journey,” Darragh has said in charity messages.

The Future: Healing, Hope and More Quizzing

Darragh has returned to The Chase stronger than ever, but he’s made it clear that healing is ongoing. He continues to honour his dad’s memory by living fully – for his family, his fans and the causes he believes in.

Fans say his vulnerability has made him even more beloved. “He’s not just The Menace anymore – he’s The Heart,” one admirer posted.

If you or someone you love is struggling with grief or dementia care, reach out – you’re not alone.

Watch the full emotional Loose Women interview on ITVX and send Darragh all your love. This is one TV moment we’ll never forget.