The Chase star warns ITV hit 'won't survive' Bradley Walsh replacement

The Chase star Paul Sinha has sounded the alarm on the future of the beloved quiz show, claiming it could crumble without its charismatic host, Bradley Walsh.

As part of the formidable quintet of Chasers, Sinha, 54, has seen firsthand the magic Walsh brings to the show.

He lavished praise on Walsh, telling Stuff: "Perhaps most importantly of all, we never forget that it is an entertainment show and to that end we are blessed with Bradley Walsh, one of the brightest stars of the light entertainment firmament.

"I think there are some shows that can't survive without that particular host," he said added. "Should Bradley Walsh, as he will do eventually, decide that his acting career comes first, The Chase won't survive."

The quick-witted comedian also shared some funny snippets from behind the scenes, detailing one particularly hilarious moment: "My favourite was the woman who, when asked, 'Which former Prime Minister had the middle name Hilda?' answered, without hesitation, 'John Prescott'.

"It took hours before we stopped laughing." The correct answer, notoriously, was Margaret Thatcher.

Despite the spotlight, Sinha, who is also a former doctor, remains grounded and introspective about his fame. Reflecting on his celebrity status, he shared anecdotes from his show Postcards From The Z List at the Edinburgh Festival.

"Much of it was about the reality of being an exceptionally minor celebrity. Whenever I am tempted to get stressed out about the spotlight, I remind myself that one day I will be long forgotten and that I will miss it."

Off-camera, Sinha embraces his comedic roots, revealing the Chasers' own "war dance," a testament to their team spirit. "Naturally, I choreographed it, and it is West Side Story meets University Challenge. At the beginning of every day's recording, we perform it with gusto. It is the most joyous 28 minutes of the working day," he explained.

Committed to his role, Sinha reassured fans of his continued presence on the show, saying: "Oh, I love it here. I cannot lie, this is the dream job. As long as the producers will have me, I'm here for them."

The star revealed in June 2019 that he had been diagnosed with Parkinson's disease and has openly discussed the implications of his diagnosis on his professional and personal life. His condition was spotted by his doctor after noticing 'telltale' signs of the disease while watching him on television.

He said: "The consultant who first diagnosed me, the second time I went to see him, said 'I've just been watching you on Taskmaster, I wish I'd known. I would have diagnosed you far quicker.'"