ITV The Chase's Paul 'the Sinnerman' Sinha has hit back at viewers who criticise players, branding them "vicious".
The smash-hit quiz show has amassed an army of fans who tune in nightly to watch the show, often taking to social media to comment on players' performances.
The show sees a team of four strangers go up against one of the eponymous Chasers in a bid to build a cash prize.
After accumulating money in their cash builder round, the Chasers make them an offer to play for a higher figure, the amount they earned or a low offer.
Players who choose to go low before their head-to-head are often criticised by fans on Twitter.
ITV has been playing repeats of the popular show during lockdown.
Yesterday, Chaser Paul Sinha criticised those who choose to comment negatively on a contestant's performance.
He said: "Anyone feeling the need to be vicious to Chase contestants, trust me they have shown more strength of character than you. Four years ago."
The tweet was liked by more than 900 people.
Former player Ollie replied to Paul and said: "I got so much stick from strangers on here a couple of weeks ago after my episode from four years ago was aired... Someone even said they wanted to dropkick me!
"Thankfully I'm thick skinned but to get so angry at a quiz show contestant is bizarre to me."
Another former player, named Paul, said: "I was on eight years ago and wish I'd have chosen the lower offer as I might have got through then! For anyone slagging off any contestants it's tougher than you think! If you're so clever have a go yourself!"
Former player John said: "Had a great experience, and enjoyed my prize money too! Hope you are well."
Rob added: "As a former contestant, I fully endorse this message. What have I missed?"
Viewer Charlene said: "Yep. I'd never be brave enough to even go on the show."
Another viewer commented: "Why tf do people attack contestants? There’s literally no point. Like they’re all human. And who goes out of their way to find contestants and message them?"
Daniel added: "You should check the hashtag every night at 5pm, you’ll see almost everybody slagging off every contestant!"
Some viewers noted they had been blocked by the Sinnerman after his tweet was shared on the social media platform.
Gary shared a screenshot showing Paul had blocked him and said: "Seems he's been on a blocking spree! Think we're entitled to call out people for being thick but he doesn't agree."
Another viewer added: "I like to think that I have more strength of character than the contestants because I'm smart enough not to apply for #TheChase as I know I will definitely get a b*****king on Twitter".
*The Chase airs weekdays on ITV at 5pm
