ITV statement shared as production paused on The Chase amid bloodbath cuts
The Chase has plenty of new episodes coming upITV has been forced to issue a statement amid concerns that The Chase is being put on ice amid the ongoing budget cuts impacting the broadcaster.
Production has been paused on the hit game show, which has been running since 2009.
Production on The Chase ‘paused’
According to The Sun, production on The Chase is being paused until next year.
Production on the latest series ended recently, and there are reportedly no plans to film more episodes of the show until 2027.
Speaking to the publication, a source claimed: “Everyone found out a few weeks ago, and people on set were very miffed and upset as they’ll be out of pocket. It’s been quite a shock and very disappointing. Many crew members feel worried and scared for the future during an uncertain time in TV.
“It’s a deeply unsettling time financially for everyone involved in The Chase. Surely loyal viewers will notice too, if they’re being fed repeat episodes,” they then added.
ITV issue statement
However, ITV has since issued a statement, easing the minds of those concerned about the show’s future.
An ITV spokesperson told TV Guide, “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.
Don't miss a single story! Add us as a Preferred Source in Google for all your television news
“With over 2.5 million viewers per show, The Chase remains one of the nation’s most loved quiz shows.
“There is also new Beat the Chasers for 2026 and a brand new spin-off series: The Chase Around the World coming soon.”
ITV budget cuts
Several long-running shows have been affected by the major ITV budget cuts that came into force earlier this year.
Lorraine and Loose Women now run seasonally, airing 30 weeks of the year, rather than 52 weeks, like they used to.
Lorraine has also seen its run time halved, down to 30 minutes from an hour.
Meanwhile, shows like Good Morning Britain have seen their run times increased. GMB now runs until 9.30am when Lorraine is on air, and 10am when it’s not.
This Morning has been affected the least, though it has moved to a new, smaller studio, as have the other daytime shows.
Read more: The Chase fans slam contestant’s behaviour in the Final Chase: ‘Bottled it’
The Chase airs on weekdays from 5pm on ITV1 and ITVX.
