The Chase’s Bradley Walsh opened up about life before his broadcasting career, which included a brutal sacking from a previous job
Bradley Walsh, host of The Chase, was once abruptly sacked from a role that went on to kickstart his successful television career. A familiar face on British television, the much-loved presenter fronts a string of hit shows including the ITV quiz show, Gladiators, Blankety Blank, and the travel series Breaking Dad, alongside his son Barney Walsh.
Before making his mark in showbusiness, the 65-year-old started out as an apprentice jet engineer at Rolls Royce, until his footballing ability caught the attention of a Brentford FC scout. He signed with the club for two seasons, but his promising career was cut short by injury.
Bradley’s first taste of performing came as a bluecoat entertainer at Pontins. Having previously been let go “for messing around” at school and in previous jobs, he viewed the role as a chance to have fun — only to find himself sacked once again.
Speaking to Comedy.co.uk last year, he recalled: “Once I left that to get into the entertainment industry and become a blue coat, I got sacked from being the bloke that was messing around.
“I thought that was the job! In the end I thought to myself, why don’t I just get paid for messing around?”
Following his sacking, Bradley turned to stand-up comedy. “That was a very conscious decision. So, I’ve got myself a routine together,” he added.
“I was a very physical comic, bit like Norman Wisdom, not so many jokes. I was a very physical comic. And that’s where it all started.” Beyond his renowned singing talents, Bradley has remained a television mainstay for more than 20 years, demonstrating his versatility as a comedian, actor, and host.
His impressive acting portfolio includes multiple prominent parts such as Danny Baldwin in ITV’s Coronation Street, DS Ronnie Brooks in Law and Order: UK and the role of Graham O’Brien in BBC One’s Doctor Who.
In 2009, he took on hosting duties for ITV’s quiz programme The Chase, marking a pivotal shift in his professional trajectory.
Bradley recalled securing The Chase position after walking into the ITV building and asking about available presenting opportunities.
Following a discussion with the then-head of daytime television, she mentioned a forthcoming quiz programme and asked for his thoughts.
Looking back on their exchange, Bradley disclosed: “I took it away and I said ‘Yes, this can work, this will work’ and she said, ‘Okay, well we’re going to make a pilot’ and I said, ‘I’ll do it for you’ and she said, ‘Yeah, but it’s only an office run-through’ and I said, ‘I’ll do it for you, don’t worry’.”
More recently, reports claimed that no new episodes of The Chase will be recorded for at least a year.
Addressing the claims, a spokesperson for the broadcaster told The Mirror: “The Chase has just finished recording series 19, which completes its recording schedule for this year.
“ITV continue to air The Chase as usual, with a combination of new and repeat episodes across the year. With over 2.5 million viewers per show, The Chase remains one of the nation’s most loved quiz shows.”
They added: “There is also a new Beat the Chasers for 2026 and a brand new spin-off series: The Chase Around the World coming soon.”
The Chase continues today at 5pm on ITV and ITVX. Bradley & Barney Walsh: Breaking Dad kicks off at 7.30pm on the same platforms.
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