Sunday on Challenge: The Chase Rules, Family Fortunes Wins Hearts, and Bullseye Keeps the Game Alive
Sunday’s lineup on Challenge is a showcase of classic British quiz culture. The channel opens with a quick teleshopping slot, then launches into a marathon of The Chase, interspersed with Family Fortunes, Tenable, Bridge of Lies, Celebrity Catchphrase, and Bullseye. Each show brings a different flavour to the Saturday evening, from high‑stakes brain‑games to family‑friendly banter.
The Chase – The Show That Keeps on Winning
Starting at 07:00 BST, The Chase runs for three consecutive hours (07:00‑10:00 BST). Bradley Walsh’s warm hosting, combined with the relentless pressure of the Chaser, creates a tense atmosphere that is hard to resist. The show’s format—rapid-fire general‑knowledge questions—keeps viewers on the edge of their seats, especially when a contestant is about to beat the Chaser. As a viewer, I find the repeated pacing a bit repetitive, but the high energy and Walsh’s charisma keep it engaging.
Tenable – A High‑Stakes Brain‑Game
Tenable appears twice on Sunday (08:00‑09:00 BST and 12:00‑13:00 BST). Warwick Davis’s enthusiastic hosting and the £125,000 jackpot add an extra layer of excitement. The format, where contestants must answer 10 questions correctly to win, offers a good balance between risk and reward. Personally, I appreciate the clarity of the rules and the straightforward challenge, although the pacing can feel slow in the first half.
Family Fortunes – A Light‑Hearted Break
Family Fortunes shows up at 09:00‑09:30 BST and 09:30‑10:00 BST. Les Dennis brings a relaxed vibe to the classic survey‑based game. The friendly competition between two families offers a nice contrast to the intense quiz shows that precede it. I find the format charming and the banter between the families adds a layer of warmth that can be refreshing after a long run of high‑stakes quizzes.
Blockbusters – Nostalgic but Predictable
Bob Holness hosts Blockbusters at 10:00‑10:30 BST and 10:30‑11:00 BST. The classic board‑quiz format is nostalgic for long‑time fans. While the game is simple and straightforward, it’s not particularly innovative. Yet, for viewers looking for a familiar, low‑pressure quiz, it’s a solid choice.
Bridge of Lies – A Fresh Twist on the Quiz
Ross Kemp takes on Bridge of Lies from 13:00‑14:00 BST. The unique concept of stepping on truths and avoiding lies adds a fun, interactive element that stands out from the other shows. I appreciate the creative format and the high production values, though the pacing can feel uneven.
Celebrity Catchphrase – The 80s Reboot
Stephen Mulhern hosts Celebrity Catchphrase from 11:00‑12:00 BST. The contemporary remake of an 80s classic offers a light‑hearted challenge for celebrities. It’s entertaining for casual viewers, but I find the stakes comparatively low compared to the other shows.
Bullseye – The Classic Dart‑Quiz
Bullseye runs from 22:00‑23:30 BST, with a final episode from 00:00‑01:00 BST. Jim Bowen’s darts‑based quiz is a staple for fans of classic game shows. The combination of skill and knowledge keeps the format engaging, and the late‑night slot makes it a great way to unwind after a full day of programming.
Bottom line: Sunday on Challenge offers a solid mix of high‑stakes and family‑friendly quizzes. The marathon of The Chase showcases the channel’s flagship, while shows like Family Fortunes and Bullseye add variety and warmth. Whether you’re in it for the adrenaline or the light‑hearted banter, you’ll find something to keep you glued to the screen.