In a move that’s already sending shockwaves through the TV world, the six-part series sees six pairs of contestants jet-setting around the globe in a race against time to track down and “capture” all six iconic Chasers—The Governess Anne Hegerty, The Beast Mark Labbett, The Vixen Jenny Ryan, The Sinnerman Paul Sinha, The Barrister Shaun Wallace, and The Menace Darragh Ennis—who will be hiding in undisclosed, exotic spots worldwide.

Wrong answers won’t just cost cash—they’ll burn precious time, potentially stranding teams and eliminating them from the competition. The ultimate prize? A life-changing sum for the winning pair who successfully hunt down every last Chaser in this pulse-pounding blend of brain-teasing trivia and real-world travel thrills.

Bradley Walsh, the 65-year-old presenter who’s become synonymous with the teatime favourite since its 2009 launch, couldn’t hide his excitement in an exclusive statement. “This bold new take on The Chase combines quizzing with travelling and will test contestants’ knowledge like never before,” he declared. “It’s going to be superb—expect edge-of-your-seat drama, stunning locations, and the Chasers at their most devious!”

The announcement came straight from ITV’s newly launched production label Bright Entertainment, headed by industry veteran Lily Wilson. As the label’s inaugural commission, The Chase Around the World builds on the original format’s staggering success: commissioned in 22 territories worldwide (including a massive U.S. version), with spin-off Beat The Chasers in 11 countries, and fresh off celebrating 17 years of dominating ITV schedules with countless awards and record-breaking ratings.

Sue Murphy, Director of Factual Entertainment Commissioning at ITV, and Kate Teckman, Head of Development & Commissioning Editor for Factual Entertainment, hailed it as “a really exciting new format taking the DNA of Britain’s most iconic quiz into epic real-world locations, in a high-stakes battle of knowledge.”

From Studio Battles to Worldwide Hunts: How The Chase Evolved

The Chase has been a staple of British teatime viewing for nearly two decades, pulling in millions with its simple yet addictive premise: everyday contestants team up against a single “Chaser”—a ruthless quiz genius—who hunts them down a cash ladder in a tense head-to-head. Bradley Walsh’s warm, cheeky presenting style, combined with the Chasers’ larger-than-life personalities (Anne’s withering put-downs, Mark’s imposing stature, Jenny’s fierce glamour), turned it into appointment TV.

The show spawned spin-offs like Beat The Chasers (contestants facing multiple Chasers at once for bigger prizes) and international adaptations from Australia to America. But Around the World takes the concept to uncharted territory—literally.

Forget the studio lights and buzzers. This time, contestants will be thrust into globe-trotting escapades, solving quiz questions to unlock clues, navigate challenges, and close in on their quarry. Think The Amazing Race meets Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?, with the added jeopardy of the Chasers actively evading capture. Locations remain top-secret for now, but insiders tease a mix of bustling cities, remote wonders, and cultural hotspots that will test geography knowledge alongside general trivia.

“Wrong answers cost time—valuable time that could mean the difference between victory and elimination,” one production source teased. “It’s not just about being smart; it’s about being quick, strategic, and adaptable under pressure.”

Bradley Walsh: The Perfect Host for Global Chaos

Few presenters could pull off this ambitious hybrid like Bradley Walsh. The former footballer, actor (Doctor Who, Law & Order: UK), and all-round entertainer has hosted The Chase since day one, earning a reputation for his quick wit, infectious enthusiasm, and ability to keep contestants calm amid chaos.

At 65, Walsh shows no signs of slowing down. He’s juggled hosting duties with family life (son Barney is carving his own path in showbiz) and even occasional acting gigs. Fans adore his Geordie-infused banter—wait, no, Essex charm—and his genuine rapport with the Chasers, who often rib him mercilessly on air.

“This is going to be a whole new level,” Walsh hinted in interviews surrounding the launch. “The Chasers are already plotting their hiding spots, and I can’t wait to see how contestants rise to the challenge—or crumble!”

The Chasers: Hunted Instead of Hunters

For the first time, the roles are reversed. The Chasers—those formidable quiz machines who’ve tormented thousands of hopefuls—now become the prey. Will Anne Hegerty’s steely intellect help her vanish into a crowd? Can Mark Labbett’s size make him hard to spot in a bustling market? Jenny Ryan’s glamour might turn heads for the wrong reasons, while Paul Sinha’s quick thinking could lead to clever decoys.

Darragh Ennis and Shaun Wallace round out the lineup, each bringing unique strengths. Production promises “superb” twists to keep the Chasers one step ahead, with contestants relying on wit, teamwork, and a bit of luck to close the gap.

Perfect Timing: A Blend of Quiz and Adventure in 2026 TV Landscape

The commission arrives at a golden moment for ITV. With shows like Race Across The World proving audiences crave real-world adventure, The Chase Around the World cleverly fuses the reliable quiz format with travel escapism. It’s primetime gold—high production values, stunning visuals, emotional highs and lows, and the comfort of familiar faces.

Bright Entertainment’s launch underscores ITV Studios’ push for fresh formats. Lily Wilson, formerly of leading indies, brings a track record of hit entertainment. This debut commission signals big ambitions: expect glossy production, international appeal, and potential global sales.

Fans are already buzzing on social media. “Bradley chasing the Chasers around the world? Take my money!” one tweeted. “Finally, a spin-off that sounds worth watching,” another added. Comparisons to Race Across The World abound—minus the budget constraints, plus killer trivia.

What We Know So Far: Release, Format Details, and Teasers

• Six episodes, primetime slot (likely evenings, post-Coronation Street or similar).
• Six pairs of contestants competing in a tournament-style elimination.
• Global locations—undisclosed to maintain secrecy and suspense.
• Life-changing prize for the winners who track all Chasers.
• Launch later in 2026—exact date TBC, but filming likely ramps up soon.
• Full Chaser lineup returning, with Walsh orchestrating from a central hub or on-location.

ITV promises “epic” scale: think drone shots over landmarks, tense stakeouts, and dramatic reveals as contestants corner their quarry.

Why This Could Be ITV’s Next Mega-Hit

The Chase has proven recession-proof: consistent ratings, loyal viewers, and endless replay value. By injecting adventure, the spin-off broadens appeal—drawing in younger audiences who love travel shows while retaining the core quiz fanbase.

In a crowded TV market, originality wins. This isn’t just another celebrity special or revival; it’s a genuine evolution. Bradley Walsh’s star power, the Chasers’ cult following, and the thrill of the hunt make it irresistible.

As one industry insider put it: “It’s The Chase on steroids—bigger, bolder, and literally worldwide.”

Get your passports ready, brush up on world capitals and obscure facts—because when The Chase Around the World hits screens, Britain’s favourite quiz is about to chase ratings to new heights.

Bradley Walsh and the Chasers won’t know what’s hit them… or where they’re hiding next.