The Chase star Anne Hegerty reveals how she brought the popular Governess character to life

There’s no doubt that beloved quizmaster Anne Hegerty holds a special place in the hearts of viewers thanks in large part to her ever-popular game show persona, The Governess.

Now the 66-year-old gameshow whiz has offered some insight into how she developed the character that would prove to be a formidable opponent against the show’s many contestants.

During a previous appearance on Loose Women, Hegerty explained that early on “the character was going to be more sort of creepy.”

“I remember saying I wanted her to be a cross between Caroline Aherne’s Mrs Merton and Daphne Fowler on EggHeads,” she said, as per OK magazine.

“I wanted everyone to think in terms of Dolores Umbridge and how the creepiest thing about her was those damn kittens. And then a friend of mine said that’s a bit too different from what I’m like and I wouldn’t be able to maintain that.

“So, I went and based her more on my grandmother who I did mention earlier and she was formidable. Also, one of my aunts and just this generically scary character [formed].

“Americans have compared her to Professor McGonagall. I would rather be McGonagall than Umbridge any day.”

It’s safe to say that Hegerty has perfected her on-screen persona with The Governess character becoming a major hit with audiences.

Fans can look forward to seeing their favourite quizmaster on their screens for many years to come after Hegerty opened up about her future on The Chase, hinting that retirement might not be on the horizon just yet.

When asked about her plans, the quizmaster responded with enthusiasm, no doubt leaving fans buzzing.

“As long as they’ll have me. I don’t have any plans to retire. This is the little workhorse that makes everything else possible, and I love doing it,” she revealed.

Hegerty has become a household name as the stern and formidable Chaser, going head to head with contestants night after night in a test of general knowledge.

Despite her tough on-screen persona, Hegerty’s affection for the show is evident as she described it as “the best job I’ve ever had.”