The Chase star Jenny Ryan is known as The Vixen, but the chaser was almost called something very different.
When it comes to competition, mental warfare is an integral art form to master. Over the years, we’ve seen the likes of Tyson Fury, Conor McGregor and Muhammad Ali dismantle opponents before they even set foot in the ring. And The Vixen is capable of doing the exact same thing in the world of quizzing.
With a witty sense of humour, the ability to answer questions at speed and an undeniably intimidating aura, which renders quizzers terrified, the genius knows exactly how to break her rivals down. Like the animal with which she’s associated, the 41-year-old, is intelligent, calculated and vicious.
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However, it took a long time for her to receive her nickname. In fact, without The Chase, the red-haired genius might’ve gone her whole life without the moniker that has made her the sensation she is today.
(Image: ITV)
When the Bolton legend first auditioned for the show upon the recommendation of ‘The Governess’ Anne Hegerty, she was without ‘The Vixen’ title we all know and love. And she almost got branded The Cougar, which of course has connotations of an older lady who pursues toy boys.
Thus, after impressing the bosses, a quest embarked to find her the nickname she deserved. However, all their efforts fell flat until Bradley Walsh saved the day.
(Image: ITV)
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In an interview with BBC Radio 2, Jenny revealed when and why the former Doctor Who star made his call. And while he often comes across like the happy-go-lucky presenter, it turns out, he’s got a great deal of intellect in his own right, as his line of thinking couldn’t have been better.
She explained: “The producers wanted to give me an animal nickname because all of my colleagues have got these really intimidating nicknames. Because I’d gone to all of my auditions wearing leopard print because that’s my favourite colour, they wanted an animaly one.”
(Image: ITV/REX/Shutterstock)
Jenny continued: “Their original idea was ‘The Cougar’. At the time I was too young, I’ve probably tipped over the edge now. But I’m not into younger people like that anyway, ew.
“Me and Brad had a screen test together and I had my hair in this big red ponytail and he immediately was like, ‘Vixen’. Foxes are clever, they’re cunning, they will fight, they’re a bit cheeky as well, they’re very cute, so, there we go. The Vixen was born.”
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Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
