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Bradley Walsh has been strongly tipped for the presenting position on Strictly Come Dancing and it's suggested he might be free with reports indicating The Chase has been "halted".

The TV presenter remains a fan favourite on the ITV quiz programme but it has been reported that no fresh episodes will be produced for at least 12 months.

The apparent move is understood to have been communicated only to the programme's team of Chasers within the past few weeks.

It's suggested that the likes of Mark "The Beast" Labbett and Anne "The Governess" Hegerty were informed of the strategy to broadcast repeats rather than create new chases.

"It's been quite a shock and very disappointing," a source revealed. "Many crew members feel worried and scared for the future during an uncertain time in TV," they added.

Speaking to The Sun, the source went on: "It's a shame as the show has survived for 17 years and remains one of the most popular quiz shows on telly. It's won countless awards and is much loved."

It's understood there are typically around 120 episodes recorded annually. They are captured in three distinct blocks, with approximately two-month intervals between them, according to The Mirror.

Bradley, 65, has fronted the much-loved programme since 2009, and is now strongly tipped to fill the vacancy on Strictly, following the departures of Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman. He had described the role as a "great gig" last year.

Despite the speculation, he attempted to play down any involvement earlier this year, claiming it would "ruin" his weekends. He even went to the lengths of outlining what a typical weekend looks like, in an effort to illustrate why his schedule leaves no room for such a commitment.

"Here's a potted version of my winter weekends," he explained. "I come home from the studio on a Friday, have dinner and watch I'm a Celebrity."

Continuing to map out his routine in a chat with the Radio Times, he went on: "On Saturday, I'll watch the football results, have dinner and a pint, watch Strictly, then I'm a Celebrity, and flip back to the BBC for Match of the Day.

"On Sunday, I get up late, watch some Columbo, then the football, followed by the Strictly results, then I'm a Celebrity, and then Match of the Day. If I was to host Strictly, it would absolutely ruin my weekend."

Despite the suggestions, ITV were eager to dismiss any concern. 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."

The spokesperson's remarks are likely to offer reassurance to anxious fans. 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."