The Chase filming halted as Shaun Wallace hospitalised and forced to undergo surgery
'I've got to make up my own recording time'The Chase has been forced to postpone filming for new episodes after Shaun Wallace was hospitalised and had to have surgery.
Shaun has been a regular on the hit ITV quiz show, hosted by Bradley Walsh, since 2009 and is widely known by his nickname, The Dark Destroyer.
The Chase star Shaun Wallace reveals knee replacement operation
The 65-year-old shared that he recently had a knee replacement operation. He is now recovering while continuing with medical treatment.
Shaun explained that he is focused on rebuilding his strength and is determined to “make up” for lost time once he returns to the ITV studios.
While appearing on the Royal Kennel Club podcast, he said he has been concentrating on his rehabilitation since the operation and confirmed he will return to filming on March 17.
“I had that three weeks ago,” he said, referring to his operation, adding: “I’ve been training every single day to make sure I can physically walk up and down the plank when I go back on March 17th – as I’ve got to make up my own recording time.”
When Shaun does return to work, however, his diary will be jam-packed.
“I’m in virtually every day from then. We start the exciting new concept of Chase Around The World throughout the whole of May. I’m really looking forward to that one,” he continued.
Don't miss a single story! Add us as a Preferred Source in Google for all your television news
Shaun hits back at viewers
In an exclusive interview with TV Guide, Shaun explained that the show regularly attracts “some really good quizzers who really want to test themselves against a professional quizzer”.
However, he stressed that it “takes courage” for contestants to appear on the programme. He noted that “facing a daunting quiz professional can be intimidating”.
Shaun also acknowledged that contestants can face harsh criticism online when things don’t go their way. He noticed this particularly when “a person gets a question wrong”. As a result, he has spoken out against viewers who mock players on social media.
“Sometimes you see on social media, people are being mocked or ridiculed for either taking a lower offer or basically not answering a question within the allotted time they’re given. And those who sit on the comfort of the sofa, I basically say to them, shut up. Because you know what, guess what? You’re not here. And it takes courage,” he said.
Read more: The Chase fans call for Shaun Wallace to ‘retire’ following ’embarrassing’ episode
