Fans of The Chase were left stunned and took to social media to plead with host Bradley Walsh after he kissed a contestant during Tuesday’s (18 March) episode.
The surprising moment unfolded when Bradley became visibly excited by contestant Cesare, who dramatically turned the game around after a slow start for the team.
Viewers frustrated by low offers
© ITVInitially, fans were left disappointed as players Dawn and Colin opted for very low offers from Anne ‘The Governess’ Hegerty. Dawn brought just £1,000 back to the team, while Colin added only £2,000.
Things worsened when player Laura was eliminated by Anne, prompting viewers to express frustration about the cautious gameplay.
Cesare saves the day
© ITVHowever, contestant Cesare changed the team’s fortunes by bravely accepting a staggering £87,000 high offer, despite scoring only £2,000 in his cash builder round.
Bradley, clearly thrilled by Cesare's bold move, jokingly promised: "I will kiss you if you get this right." When Cesare secured the impressive win, Bradley kept his word, giving the contestant a celebratory kiss on the cheek.
Fan reaction divides viewers
© ITVWhile some viewers praised Cesare’s daring gamble, others felt Bradley’s enthusiasm was excessive and distracting.
One fan wrote on social media: "Someone get help for Brad," while another added: "Calm down, Brad! You're not the one playing for all that money!"
Another viewer begged: "Bradley Walsh, please stop kissing contestants! This is too much!"
Debate over prize fairness
© ITVCesare’s success pushed the team's total prize fund up to an impressive £90,000, which meant each remaining player stood to win £30,000.
However, this didn’t sit well with some fans, who argued that Dawn and Colin hadn’t contributed enough to justify sharing such a large prize.
On X (formerly Twitter), one viewer wrote: "No way should Dawn and Colin get £30k each for barely contributing," while another agreed: "It doesn't seem fair—Cesare did all the hard work!"
Cesare addresses the debate
© ITVCesare himself took to social media after the episode aired, offering insight into his strategic approach to the game.
He explained: "Due to how offers are made, #TheChase's best strategy is often to go low-low-low-high. The last high offer is usually very tempting to lure in the final contestant. High risk, high reward."
He then humorously acknowledged the risk, adding: "Having said that, best strategy doesn't always equate to a win."
Mixed reaction continues
© ShutterstockDespite the debate over gameplay tactics, most viewers agreed it was one of the most exciting episodes in recent memory.
Fans praised Cesare's courage, with one tweeting: "Cesare is the hero we needed tonight—made it worth watching!"
Another said: "Cesare deserved that kiss from Brad! Finally, someone taking a risk."
The Chase continues weekdays at 5pm on ITV and ITVX.
