Latest news with #ShaunWallace
Edinburgh Live
02-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Edinburgh Live
The Chase's Shaun Wallace admits he could be 'prone' to serious health condition
Our community members are treated to special offers, promotions and adverts from us and our partners. You can check out at any time. More info The Chase star Shaun Wallace, who celebrates his 65th birthday today, has candidly admitted that that he might be at risk of serious health condition. Nicknamed the Dark Destroyer on the popular ITV show, he challenges contestants in a battle of wits for a cash prize. Away from the limelight of the ITV quiz show, Shaun has taken to social media to share his fitness journey, underscoring the importance of staying active in your later years. During a recent chat on the New Mind podcast, Shaun opened up about his concerns over inheriting diabetes, a condition that affected both his parents. He said: "My mum and dad had health issues, my mum and dad got diabetes, and obviously I could be prone to that." (Image: undefined via Getty Images) He further emphasised his commitment to staying fit and independent, stating: "But the one thing that I was determined to ensure (was) that by the time I reach, I'm going to reach 65 this year, but by the time I reach into my sort of latter years, you know, tomorrow's not promised to anybody, but I want to be as mobile and independent as I possibly can." Before becoming a TV personality on The Chase since 2009, Shaun had an unconventional path to stardom, having first pursued a career as a barrister back in the 1980s. (Image: undefined via Getty Images) Despite being a familiar face on The Chase for over 15 years, Shaun's first foray into the world of television actually came five years earlier when he clinched victory on Mastermind. His next telly stint was not far behind, as he featured on the spin-off programme Are You an Egghead? While his Mastermind win has led to numerous other TV roles, the 65-year-old remains committed to his career as a barrister, recently revealing that it takes "precedence" over his quiz show duties. (Image: undefined via Getty Images) Even though he's been a staple on The Chase since its inaugural episode, Shaun shared on The Hearing - A Legal Podcast how he juggles his time between the ITV show and his courtroom responsibilities: "If I've got a long trial, then that will take precedence over my filming, and the Chase know that." "But I've then got to makeup my other episodes later on in the series." The Chase returns tonight at 5 pm (June 2) on ITV.
Daily Mail
02-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Mail
The Chase's Shaun Wallace admits 'life has not been easy' in rare emotional post as he celebrates 65th birthday - and wows fans with jaw-dropping weight loss
The Chase's Shaun Wallace has admitted 'life has not been easy' in a rare emotional post to celebrate his 65th birthday - and wowed fans with his jaw-dropping weight loss. Shaun AKA The Dark Destroyer took to X, formerly known as Twitter, to celebrate his special day with a video of him out out at sea at Poole harbor in Dorset. He said: 'Today is my 65th birthday. Life's not been that easy sometimes, just like this boat - rocking up and down. 'But I'm here to tell the tail. I hope I've got many more years to come.' Shaun captioned the post: 'I'm very grateful for reaching my 65th Birthday today 'My life has not been easy but I've never given up. From A-list scandals and red carpet mishaps to exclusive pictures and viral moments, subscribe to the DailyMail's new Showbiz newsletter to stay in the loop. The Chase's Shaun Wallace admitted that 'life has not been easy' in rare emotional post as he celebrated his 65th birthday Last week the star shared this topless video of himself on X to get people moving as they get older Shaun (pictured) joined The Chase back in 2009 and has been one of the Chasers ever since 'I've worked hard, been persistent and have learnt valuable lessons from the multiple times I have failed. 'A genuine thank you to all my followers, I will do my best to inspire, motivate and entertain for the rest of my life. 'Have an amazing day… I intend to.' Many rushed to the comments section to send him some birthday wishes. 'Happy birthday Shaun I hope you have a day as special as you are x.' 'We hope today is filled with hope happiness and all the things that make you smile. Happy birthday.' 'Happy birthday Shaun you're looking great for your age. Always my Favourite, love the way you always want the contestants to do well.' 'Have a good one!' Many fans rushed to his post on X, formerly known as Twitter, to send their birthday wishes over to him 'Awesome, you look absolutely on point. Happy Birthday, keep on with the inspiring messages and have a cracking day.' Last week he also shared another motivational post with fans. Sharing a video of him driving a boat at sea, he said: 'Sometimes you have to go for it and move out of your comfort zone to achieve what you want to in life.' Last week he also shared a clip of him working out while supporting Age UK's latest campaign. And at the end of the video he took off his t-shirt to show off his toned physique. He said: 'Exercise well, eat healthy and grow old gracefully.' One fan replied: 'Looking good Shaun!' 'Love this Shaun, keep sending the positive messages.' Shaun showed off his arm muscles and toned physique as he worked out as part of Age UK's campaign Many followers rushed to post to reply and tell him how great he looks, with one saying 'keep sending the positive messages' 'Thanks for the motivation Shaun.' Shaun has been busy in recent months working on himself. Last month he impressed fans as he showcased his impressive weight loss in a topless bathroom video after a major health setback. Shaun decided to embark on lifestyle overhaul, changing his diet and exercising more. The TV star has been updating fans with his journey on social media and has managed to celebrate a huge milestone. Videoing himself in his bathroom, he told fans: 'End of the first week of the Jane Plan diet journey, let's see if I've lost weight...' Shaun, who has been on the programme since 2009, stood on the scales and explained that he'd managed to shed three kilos. He captioned the Instagram post: 'It's weigh in time! 'I've lost 3 kilos! Keeping up with my Janeplan diet.' It comes after the star revealed that he used to run every day, but had to stop due to a health problem. Speaking on The Hearing podcast, Shaun said: 'I train every single morning to keep myself fit and ready for the day. I can't run anymore. 'I used to run a mile a day but because I have problems with my knees now. 'I just use the outdoor gym and have a rowing machine.' It comes after Shaun shared a rare insight into his dating life as he revealed his current relationship status. When appearing on the How To Be 60 podcast with Kay Adams and Karen MacKenzie, he opened up about his current dating life. When the two show hosts first asked questions about his love life, Shaun responded: 'I suppose I'm married to my career. Put it that way. I like that. 'I prefer that and I'm happier.' But after some persistence on the subject, he added: 'Yes, I'm in a relationship.'
Daily Mirror
01-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Mirror
Shaun Wallace's life away from The Chase from private romance to huge salary
Shaun Wallace, who is better known as The Dark Destroyer on ITV's The Chase, has had an impressive career both as a barrister and television personality - but little is known about his personal life. Shaun Wallace, fondly known as The Dark Destroyer on ITV's hit quiz show The Chase, has become a familiar face in many homes. He shares the spotlight with host Bradley Walsh and a team of knowledgeable quizzers. The programme made its debut in June 2009, with Shaun and fellow quizzer Mark Labbett being part of the original line-up. They remain key figures on the show today, alongside Anne Hegerty, Paul Sinha, Jenny Ryan and Darragh Ennis. Before his rise to TV fame, Shaun was a practising criminal barrister, appearing in hearings at both the Old Bailey and numerous magistrates' courts across England, Wales and Scotland. His life took an exciting turn in 2004 when he clinched victory in the BBC general knowledge quiz Mastermind, choosing FA Cup Finals as his specialist subject. This triumph caught the eye of Bradley Walsh and his production crew, leading to Shaun being recruited by ITV as the inaugural chaser on The Chase. His popularity on the show paved the way for a host of other opportunities, including hosting quizzes on cruise ships, writing his own autobiography Catching A Dream, and making countless other TV appearances, according to Bristol Live. Despite his public persona, little is known about Shaun's personal life. Here, we delve into his life away from the cameras. Huge salary In a recent chat, Shaun unveiled his impressive dual income, revealing that he now commands a hefty six-figure salary for his work as a barrister and TV star. Mastermind champion Shaun Wallace has credited his quiz show triumph for a dramatic boost in his wealth. Chatting about his financial status to The Times, the quizzing whizz gave a wry response: "A lot. That's all I'll say. How many zeros?" Although he remained coy on exact figures, Shaun opened up about his considerable financial leap: "Well into six-zero territory and my earnings have increased massively since I've started working in TV. I got paid well as a barrister but I'm now earning about ten times the amount I was before," revealing that television had significantly multiplied his income. Despite becoming a household name on television, Shaun hasn't entirely left the law behind as he said: "I still practise, though, so I have a dual income. Probably 70 percent of my income comes from my TV work and 30 percent from the legal side. Everything changed when I won Mastermind in 2004. Not just my finances, my whole life." Private romance When it comes to matters of the heart, Shaun, affectionately dubbed The Dark Destroyer on The Chase, tends to keep the cards close to his chest regarding his love life. Nevertheless, during his chat with Loose Women's Kaye Adams on the How To Be 60 podcast, he intriguingly hinted at his love life. He cryptically said: "I suppose I'm married to my career. Put it that way. I like that. I prefer that and I'm happier." When pressed about having someone special, Shaun simply stated: "Yes, I'm in a relationship." Family admission At 64, Shaun has consistently kept his private affairs out of the limelight, resulting in scant public knowledge of his personal endeavours. However, in an unusual move, the recognisable ITV personality shared insights into his home life on a recent podcast. Addressing whether he has ever had children, Shaun revealed: "No, I have never had a child." He justified his lack of fatherhood with reference to his past struggles as a budding barrister, claiming that the demands of his early legal career didn't align with responsible parenting. Shaun recounted on the podcast: "It was a conscious reason when I was a young struggling barrister. I didn't think it would be right to bring up a child when you're trying to climb to the top of that greasy pole." Though he hasn't experienced parenthood himself, Shaun has played a significant part in guiding several children as a godparent. Shaun freely admitted: "And I've never regretted that decision. I've got 15 godchildren. Two of them are called Shaun and I'm the best godfather in the world. I probably would have been a great dad but I've got no regrets in relation to that." The TV star also treasures his involvement in his ex-partner's child's life, considering it an exceptionally rewarding experience. He beamed with pride as he noted that she is akin to his own daughter, and affectionately calls him 'dad'. Reflecting on her accomplishments, Shaun said: "I watched her grow into a lovely young lady. She got a first-class honours degree recently and she got her doctorate the other day and I was there." Retirement plans Quiz master Shaun Wallace recently celebrated his 64th birthday, sparking curiosity among fans about whether he plans to retire from his famous role as The Dark Destroyer on Bradley Walsh's smash-hit quiz show, The Chase. Even though Shaun has been a constant fixture on The Chase since its inception in June 2009, he shows no signs of slowing down or retiring any time soon. In an exclusive chat with the New Zealand Woman's Weekly, he affirmed his commitment to continuing his vocation without interruption. Expressing his passion for his work and quizzing, Shaun bravely disclosed: "I'm celebrating 40 years in the job this year and I have no plans to retire at 65 - I love it. I love quizzing too, so I will be doing that for as long as I can." Shaun humbly shared his down-to-earth perspective on the show's impressive run. He confessed: "I never take being on The Chase for granted. I know it could all end tomorrow, and I still pinch myself that we are celebrating our 15th anniversary this year." The Chase is available to watch on ITVX.
Irish Daily Mirror
21-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Irish Daily Mirror
The Chase contestant details harsh rule for contestants who've been knocked out
Every contestant on The Chase has their eyes set on the big prize, but anyone who watches the show knows that successful participants are rare. Bradley Walsh has been the face of the ITV quiz show since its inception in 2009, challenging teams of four to outwit one of the quiz maestros for a chance at winning cash prizes. For those who make it to the final chase, they're under pressure to hit as many correct answers as possible in two minutes, hoping the chaser doesn't catch up, reports the Mirror. But spare a thought for those who falter before the finale. It's a common occurrence on the show for at least one team member to get knocked out in their individual head-to-head round against the chaser. Those who find themselves ousted then have to watch the rest of the game from afar, potentially watching their teammates claim a substantial jackpot. This revelation comes from a former contestant who took to Reddit to unveil behind-the-scenes details after being questioned if eliminated participants are allowed to remain on set for the remainder of the show. In response to a Reddit user asking "When you've been caught in the head-to-head part, does the show allow you to stick around so you can see your fellow team performing the final chase?" the ex-contestant disclosed: "Yeah, you go sit with the crew and watch from the sidelines." Commenters empathised with the experience, with one saying: "Tbh if I was the only one knocked out, I'd be pretty upset if the other three won big." Another reckoned that the presence of eliminated players in the studio might be necessary for something called a Lazarus Team. The scenario describes a situation in which all four contestants are eliminated during the head-to-head round, but one is reinstated to face the chaser alone in the final chase, as teammates look on. If that contestant is successful, each member of the team is awarded £1,000 (approximately €1,165). The former contestant on the show added: "I mean, arguably they could just fetch us back from the green room if that were to happen but no, I was sat over by the adjudicator sort of off to the right of where the chaser sits." In another behind-the-scenes disclosure, the former contestant, who once went up against chaser Shaun Wallace, AKA The Dark Destroyer, revealed: "Another bit of info, there's no audience. All the laughter etc is added in post production. They only have an audience for the celeb version. The music does play in the studio though."
Daily Mail
21-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Mail
I was a contestant on The Chase - this is the brutal thing they make you do if you're knocked out
A contestant from The Chase has revealed what happens behind the scenes when players are knocked out of the game. The ITV game show, presented by Bradley Walsh, 65, sees four players take on a Chaser, either Jenny Ryan, Shaun Wallace, Darragh Ennis, Paul Sinah or Anne Hegarty. Each player participates in a cash builder before going head-to-head with one of the talented quizzers. If successful, they then return to the team and add their winnings to the group prize pot, before taking on the Chaser again in a final round to try and win a share of the cash. However, some players don't always make it back to the table and a former contestant has shared what unfolds if you fall short. In a post on Reddit, someone who has previously appeared on the game show shared that anyone kicked out of the game has to stand at the side and watch. Someone asked them: 'When you've been caught in the head-to-head part, does the show allow you to stick around so you can see your fellow team performing the final chase?' 'Yeah, you go sit with the crew and watch from the sidelines,' the contestant replied. They described how they 'sat over by the adjudicator sort of off to the right of where the chaser sits'. During their game, the contestant went against Shaun Wallace, known as the Dark Destroyer, and secured £5,000 in the cash builder round, but chose to go for the higher offer of £30,000. They revealed they didn't know who the Chaser was before they walked out, just like how it is portrayed in the episode. 'Don't see any chasers before the show, only see ours during the bits they're answering questions and don't see them after the recording (except he did come down to the green room for a quick chat and photo op which I was told they don't all do),' they wrote. If contestants want to challenge an answer to a question, there's even an adjudicator present to help. 'It was made clear there was an independent adjudicator and if you want to challenge an 'incorrect' answer you can do so at any time and they'll look into it,' the player described. Another contestant, fertility therapist Nicola Crawley starred on the show in 2023 and she excelled in the cash builder round with £8,000. But Nicola struggled when she finally faced Chaser Paul Sinha - and ultimately went home without any money. Opening up about her time on the show to Nicola revealed the stark warning production staff give contestants. With the rise of social media has come trolling - and Nicola said contestants were warned about the risks of this. 'Yes, they advised us to stay off social media for a few days after our episode aired,' she said.
