Millions tune in to The Chase expecting those famous answer buttons hammered under pressure. But according to one recent contestant, some of the show’s most recognisable features are far from what viewers think — with parts of the set described as “very makeshift”. A player who filmed an episode of the ITV quiz show this week has revealed what really goes on behind the scenes, lifting the lid on the production secrets fans never see.
Posting on Reddit, the contestant hosted an “ask me anything” session about their experience, answering questions about filming, the studio set and what surprised them most about the day. One of the biggest shocks centred on the answer buttons used during the cash builder and head-to-head rounds. Asked what they were like in real life, the contestant replied: “They’re drawn on in black marker, very makeshift and they look like clear squares.” They added that the buttons are not as solid as they appear on screen, explaining: “Slightly bigger than a computer keyboard. They don’t press down as far as I thought they would!”
Despite appearances, contestants are given time to get used to them before filming begins. The player confirmed: “Yeah absolutely, they encourage you to have a look, feel and press to get your bearings.”
The illusion continues beyond the buttons. Viewers at home are used to hearing dramatic sound effects during tense moments — but those noises are largely added later.
Revealing what the studio is actually like, the contestant said: “Lots of the sound effects are added afterwards too, so it’s eerily quiet in there.”
Another moment that looks slick on screen but is far simpler in reality is when contestants walk off after being eliminated.
Addressing long-standing viewer curiosity, the player explained: “You basically turn around 180 and step down and walk toward a person just by the camera. There’s a step behind. You all get a practice run.”
Even the ticking clock during the cash builder round is not what it seems. While viewers can see the countdown on screen, players have no idea how much time remains.
The contestant confirmed: “Nope, no countdown on the cash builder. Absolutely no idea how much time you have on the cash builder! Just the klaxon once it’s over!”
One of the more unexpected set tricks involves host Bradley Walsh’s podium, which viewers never see move on camera.
Describing the moment, the contestant said: “Brads podium literally disappears into the floor between the cash builder and the table. It literally just slides down under the floor .”
Despite the revelations, the player stressed that the experience was overwhelmingly positive, saying: “You’re treated like a tv star for the day. Brad is so funny as well he made me laugh so much that calmed me down.”
They added that seeing how the show is made was a highlight, explaining: “Seeing all the behind the scenes bits and how it is all put together is so cool.”
And while The Chase may look intense from the sofa, the contestant admitted the reality hits differently under studio lights, adding: “It’s definitely easier from the comfort of your sofa.”