The Chase fans were left heartbroken after learning a contestant died just weeks after filming his episode

The Chase viewers were left heartbroken after the death of a former contestant was confirmed (Image: ITV)

The Chase viewers were left heartbroken on Wednesday night (August 27) after learning that contestant Tim McCarthy had died just weeks after filming his episode. Tim, from Tyldesley in Greater Manchester, passed away in July following a long illness. His wife Rachel McCarthy revealed knew he was terminally ill with only months to live when he took part in the hit ITV quiz show.

After the news was made public, fans rushed to social media to share their grief after seeing him on screen. One wrote: “I read that Tim died just after the show was filmed, this is so sad.” Another added: “#TheChase I read on the internet today that contestant Tim has died since appearing on The Chase so bear that in mind when making comments.” A third simply posted: “RIP Tim.” Tim’s family shared tributes of their own.

contestant Tim McCarthy died just weeks after filming his episode (Image: ITV)

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His friend Stuart Keane told the BBC that Tim never even told them if the team won the episode, and plan to tune in tonight to find out the result: “He never told us who won so we can’t wait to see what happened.”

Tim’s widow Rachel McCarthy revealed the 64-year-old had been overjoyed to be chosen as a contestant despite his health battles. “He was so excited when he was selected for the show even though he was very ill,” she said.

Rachel admitted watching the episode would be tough but explained it was an experience her husband had long dreamed of: “The day of its airing was going to be very difficult but it was part of his bucket list.”

She added: “He was the most clever man I ever knew.”

Mr Keane echoed her words, describing Tim as “a brilliant friend with a brilliant mind.”

both players managed to beat Jenny taking home a whopping £100k (Image: ITV)

Tim was joined by fellow players Lorcan, Shirin and Julie as they battled it out against Jenny “the vixen” Ryan is a bid to win some cash.

Lorcan banked £5k for the team but both Shirin and Julie were sent packing during their head-to-head with Jenny. Last up was Tim, who shocked players by taking a high offer of £95k and winning it for his team.

“Go tim , fulfilling his dream , hope they win the big one”

“TIM GOT BACK WITH 95K! Fantastic!!!!!!!!”

To everyone’s delight – with less than a second to spare, both players managed to beat Jenny taking home a whopping £100k.

Fans shared their joy, penning: “What a win. Especially as Tim was gravely ill at the time and died a month later. What a man!” Another shared:

“#TheChase well done to Tim and Lorcan for winning £50,000 each,” and:

“I’m at least happy Tim got to not only win, but to got to fulfill what was told to be a Life long dream”

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