Mark Labbett, widely known as “The Beast” on The Chase, 

has revealed the reason he won’t be hitting the dance floor on Strictly Come Dancing anytime soon.

The 59-year-old quiz expert, who has been a key part of the ITV game show

since its debut in 2009, made the revelation during a recent episode of The Chase, leaving fans both amused and disappointed.

Mark’s Hilarious Reason for Avoiding Strictly

While facing a contestant named Annaka from Newton Abbott, Mark humorously compared his dancing skills to her quizzing ability.

After she successfully earned £2,000 in the cash builder round, Mark quipped, “Good afternoon, Annaka. Well, you quiz like I dance: it’s not pretty and it’s the reason I’m barred from Strictly.”

The witty remark left host Bradley Walsh and the studio audience in stitches, but it also sparked curiosity among fans who have long speculated about whether Mark would ever take part in the BBC dance competition.

Would Mark Ever Consider Strictly?

Despite his joke about being “barred” from Strictly, Mark has previously expressed interest in competing on the show. Speaking to The Sun last year, the quizmaster admitted he would be open to the idea if the opportunity arose.

“We actually film The Chase at the same place, at the George Lucas stage in Elstree,” Mark explained. “I could do one show in the morning and then go straight on up and do the other in the evening.”

He added, “I would be very happy if my agent said, ‘Strictly would love to chat to you.’ From October to December, I practically live in Elstree doing The Chase, so it would work out perfectly.”

His comments suggest that while his dancing skills may not be competition-ready, scheduling logistics wouldn’t be an issue if he were to sign up.

Strictly Bosses Had Mark on Their Wish List

Mark’s name has reportedly been on Strictly producers’ radar in the past. According to The Sunday People, show bosses considered approaching him for the 2018 series. That year’s competition was ultimately won by documentary filmmaker Stacey Dooley, but insiders believed Mark could have been a major draw for the show’s audience.

An insider revealed at the time, “Mark has become one of the best-known personalities on TV, so he has come on to Strictly’s radar. They think he could be a real hit with viewers, just as he has been on The Chase. He would certainly make people stand up and take notice with his stature.”

Given his towering 6ft 6in frame and his larger-than-life personality, Mark would certainly bring a unique presence to the Strictly dance floor.

Mark’s Impressive Weight Loss Journey

One of the reasons fans have speculated about Mark’s potential involvement in Strictly is his dramatic weight loss transformation.

The quiz champion has lost an incredible 10 stone over the past few years, a feat he has attributed to a combination of improved diet, exercise, and a more active lifestyle.

While speaking about his health journey, Mark revealed that he’s in the best shape he’s been in years. His transformation has sparked encouragement from fans who believe he might now be in a better position to tackle the physical demands of the dance competition.

Why Mark Would Be a Great Strictly Contestant

Mark’s sharp wit and popularity make him a strong contender for a show like Strictly Come Dancing. Over the years, the series has welcomed a variety of celebrity contestants, including athletes, presenters, and even fellow quiz stars like Anne Hegerty, who competed on I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here! in 2018.

Mark’s confidence on The Chase suggests he could handle the pressure of live performances, and his recent fitness transformation might give him the endurance needed for rigorous training sessions.

Will He Ever Join?

For now, Mark Labbett remains focused on his role as “The Beast” on The Chase, where he continues to dominate with his extensive knowledge and quick thinking.

While his latest remark about being “barred” from Strictly was clearly made in jest, it hasn’t stopped fans from hoping he might reconsider in the future.

If Strictly producers do come calling again, perhaps Mark will trade in his quiz podium for the dance floor. Until then, viewers will have to settle for his quick-footed responses on The Chase rather than quickstep routines on Strictly.