ITV viewers have been left scratching their heads over the identity of the new The Chase star, Maverick. However, some eagle-eyed fans believe they've cracked the case. The popular quiz show has returned with a fresh batch of Beat the Chaser episodes.
Yet, it's the unexpected appearance of a masked figure on the panel that has stolen the limelight and left viewers baffled.
"What's with this Maverick? All a bit odd... #BeatTheChasers," one viewer questioned. Another chimed in: "What's wrong with this different chaser? Why is he dressed and talking like that? #BeatTheChasers."
The enigma surrounding Maverick continues to grow, fuelled by fan theories circulating online. The panel of quiz experts includes Anne Hegerty (The Governess), Mark Labbett (The Beast), Paul Sinha (The Sinnerman), Jenny Ryan (The Vixen), Shaun Wallace (The Dark Destroyer) and Darragh Ennis (The Menace), reports The Mirror.
Now, there's a fresh face in town!
A caption on a post about the newcomer teases: "There's A New Face In Town... The Maverick Has Joined The Chasers! But Who Could It Be? Find Out Sunday At 8pm On ITV!".
Fans of the ITV show are eagerly guessing the identity of the Maverick - and some are convinced it'll be a top comedian. One fan speculated: "Everyone going on about who will be the mysterious "Maverick" on #beatthechasers, but knowing ITV, it will probably just be a stunt casting like Stephen Mulhern or Joe Pasquale."
Another viewer chimed in: "That new chaser in #beatthechasers is joe pasquale i'd bet money on it."
A third commented: "That's Joe Pasquale under the mask #beatthechasers... The Mave and Rick joke is pure Joe. He's also Brad's best mate, and incredibly intelligent."
Bradley Walsh has presented The Chase for years, with no indication of stepping down anytime soon. Discussing his lengthy tenure on the programme, he remarked: "Until people say they've had enough and start switching off, I'll do it. We've had such an extraordinary time together. It's the best job in the world."
Alongside The Chase, Bradley features on programmes including Gladiators and Blankety Blank, whilst he teams up with his son Barney on Breaking dad.