Bradley Walsh, the beloved host of ITV’s The Chase, has opened up about making a sincere vow to his family to slow down and cherish more quality moments together. Speaking candidly in a 2024 conversation with actor Tommy Tiernan, Bradley reflected on his illustrious career, unfulfilled ambitions, and the misperceptions people often hold about those in the television industry.
The 65-year-old revealed a surprising regret: he feels he missed his true calling as a director. “I’ve missed my vocation in life, that’s what’s happened. I should have been a director,” he confessed. When Tommy encouraged him that it’s not too late to pursue directing, Bradley expressed hesitation, aware of his age and the limited time ahead.
With trademark honesty, Bradley discussed the reality of aging. “I think, well I’ve got bags of energy, but I just think, now, age. There’s a certain amount of time you’ve got to slow down as well,” he said. In line with this, he has promised his family that he’ll take it easier, spend more time at home, and enjoy relaxing holidays.
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Contrary to the “workaholic” label often attached to him, Bradley explained that his demanding schedule actually allows him substantial time off. “We cram everything in,” he said, noting that he films an entire year’s worth of The Chase in just 50 days, while other shows like Blankety Blank and Gladiators are completed in just a handful of weeks. This compact schedule leaves him with the rest of the year free—for example, recently enjoying ten weeks in Portugal to recharge.
Beyond work, Bradley has been candid about personal health challenges, including dealing with blepharitis, a condition causing eye swelling. His reflections on mortality are deeply influenced by the passing of his father, Daniel, who died suddenly at 59. Reaching that age himself was a poignant milestone: “I had a hang-up because my father died at the age of 59. I had it in the back of my mind that I just had to get past my dad’s age,” Bradley shared. His father passed away just weeks after a pivotal moment in Bradley’s career, never seeing the success that followed.
Through these revelations, Bradley Walsh offers a touching glimpse into the man behind the famous smile—a dedicated family man embracing the need to slow down and savor life’s most important moments.