Viewers of The Chase were left stunned after a contestant made a shocking move that significantly reduced the team’s prize pot.
Thursday’s episode of the ITV game show, hosted by Bradley Walsh, featured four contestants taking on Chaser Jenny Ryan, also known as The Vixen.
While some players showed bold determination, one decision in particular left fans fuming.
A Strong Start and Bold Moves
The game started with Eleanor, 24, who impressed in the cash builder round with £6,000 but ultimately failed to defeat The Vixen.
Next up was 43-year-old Bev from Borehamwood, who took a daring risk by accepting the higher offer of £40,000.
Jenny acknowledged her courage, saying, “She’s a competitor, I’ll give her that!”
Against the odds, Bev successfully beat The Chaser, securing a massive boost to the prize fund.
The Controversial Decision
Then came Neil, 52, who opted for a cautious approach by accepting the lower offer of -£5,000.
But it was Nick, 44, who truly shocked audiences when he took an even bigger hit to the prize pool—choosing an enormous minus £14,000 offer.
Defending his decision, Nick explained, “Let’s go minus £14,000, try and get back, try and win some money.”
Jenny weighed in, noting that while the amount was substantial, having three contestants in the final round could increase their chances of success.
Despite the risky play, both Neil and Nick managed to return for the final chase.
However, the team ultimately failed to defeat The Vixen.
Fan Outrage Erupts Online
The aftermath of Nick’s choice sparked a wave of frustration from The Chase fans, many of whom took to social media to voice their disappointment.
One viewer wrote on X (formerly Twitter), “Only just hearing about this guy taking -£14,000 on The Chase.
Utterly shambolic and shameful behavior.”
Another added, “Minus £14k! I could never show my face in public again.”
Others were even more scathing, with one fan reportedly calling Nick a “disgrace to quiz show TV,” while another ranted, “Why go on a quiz show to win money and then take -£14,000?
Felt sorry for the contestant who earned £40,000 only for these two to cut it in half.”
Some even joked that the show should be canceled over such gameplay.
Another Controversial Moment on The Chase
This isn’t the first time the show has seen questionable tactics frustrate viewers.
Just a day before, host Bradley Walsh had to step in and warn a contestant not to waste his time.
On that episode, contestant Qahir played it safe by choosing the lowest offer of £1,000, despite encouragement from his teammates to aim higher.
As the round neared its conclusion, Bradley told him, “You’ve been vindicated in going for the minus offer, but it would be an awful waste of my time if you don’t go through now.”
The Chase Keeps Viewers Talking
Despite the controversy, The Chase remains a must-watch for many fans, who eagerly tune in to see high-stakes decisions and unexpected twists.
The show airs weekdays on ITV1 at 5 PM and is available for streaming on ITVX.