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The Chase host Bradley Walsh said he was once sacked from a position that would ultimately launch his thriving television career. A recognisable figure on British television, the presenter helms numerous popular programmes including the ITV quiz show, Gladiators, Blankety Blank, and the travel programme Breaking Dad, alongside his son Barney Walsh.

Prior to establishing himself in showbusiness, the 65-year-old began as an apprentice jet engineer at Rolls Royce, until his footballing prowess attracted the attention of a Brentford FC scout. He joined the club for two seasons, but his encouraging career was curtailed by injury.

Bradley's initial experience of performing arrived as a bluecoat entertainer at Pontins. Having previously been dismissed "for messing around" at school and in earlier positions, he regarded the role as an opportunity to enjoy himself - only to find himself sacked yet 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 dismissal, Bradley pursued 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 comedic abilities, Bradley has remained a television fixture for more than 20 years, showcasing his range as a comedian, actor, and presenter.

His extensive acting credentials feature numerous high-profile roles including Danny Baldwin in ITV's Coronation Street, DS Ronnie Brooks in Law and Order: UK and the part of Graham O'Brien in BBC One's Doctor Who.

In 2009, he began presenting duties for ITV's quiz show The Chase, signalling a crucial turning point in his career path.

Bradley remembered landing The Chase job after entering the ITV headquarters and enquiring about potential presenting vacancies.

After a conversation with the then-head of daytime television, she referenced an upcoming quiz show and requested his opinion.

Reflecting on their discussion, he revealed: "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'."

Most recently, reports suggested that no fresh episodes of The Chase will be filmed for at least a year. Responding to the allegations, 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 went on to say: "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.