Anne Hegerty, known as “The Governess” on The Chase, earned approximately £100,000 (NZ$235,000) more than her usual annual pay last year, according to statements she made to The Sun. The pay increase follows an intense filming schedule that Hegerty told Digital Spy “worked us into the ground” between September last year and May this year.
The Financial Impact of Global Game Show Expansion
The Chase has evolved from a single UK program into a global franchise with multiple spin-offs. This expansion has created a high-volume workload for its core cast, including Hegerty, Mark Labbett, Shaun Wallace, Paul Sinha, Jenny Ryan, and Darragh Ennis.
Hegerty’s recent earnings spike reflects the production of “hundreds of shows” currently in the pipeline. She confirmed to The Sun that the cast filmed two series of Beat the Chasers last year despite originally being scheduled for only one. This surge in production volume directly contributed to her increased income.
Production Pauses and the 2027 Timeline
Despite the financial gains, the physical toll of the schedule has led to a strategic break. Hegerty confirmed that ITV will put The Chase on hold until 2027. This hiatus allows the cast and host Bradley Walsh to pursue other projects.
According to Hegerty, the break is necessary because the team has already recorded a significant backlog of episodes. She noted that the time off allows Bradley Walsh to focus on his own ventures and Jenny Ryan to pursue her singing career.
The New Zealand and Australian Market Strategy
While the UK main series pauses, Hegerty is targeting the Oceania market. She told Digital Spy that she is actively seeking a second season of the New Zealand spin-off hosted by Paul Henry. “I will take the New Zealand job if they offer it,” Hegerty stated.
In addition to her New Zealand ambitions, Hegerty indicated she would be filming The Chase Australia during her break from the primary UK production. This strategy allows the “Chasers” to maintain a global presence while the UK-based filming is suspended.
Comparing Workload and Reward
The contrast between the financial rewards and the professional strain is stark. Hegerty’s experience highlights a trend in high-stakes television where filming blocks are used to bank content for years of broadcasting.
| Factor | Reported Detail |
|---|---|
| Income Increase | ~£100,000 (NZ$235,000) above normal |
| Filming Window | September to May (with “barely a break”) |
| UK Hiatus | On hold until 2027 |
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do The Chase stars get paid?
While total salaries are not public, Anne Hegerty reported earning approximately £100,000 more than her usual annual pay last year due to increased filming volume.
When will The Chase return to ITV?
According to Anne Hegerty, the show is on hold until 2027, though hundreds of episodes have already been recorded and are ready for broadcast.
Is there a new version of The Chase?
Yes, Chase Around the World is set to premiere in the UK, featuring contestants traveling to international locations to find the chasers.
What do you think about the Chasers’ grueling schedule? Should the show take a break, or do you want more episodes now? Let us know in the comments below or subscribe to our newsletter for more entertainment industry updates.
