Fans Surprised to Learn the True Origin of Mark Labbett’s Nickname 'The Beast' on The Chase

Mark Labbett, affectionately known as "The Beast" on the popular ITV quiz show The Chase, has been a fixture on the program since its inception. With his towering presence and intimidating quizzing skills, many viewers assumed his nickname was a nod to his large stature—standing at an impressive six feet six—or his formidable intelligence.

However, the real story behind his nickname has recently left fans both surprised and amused.

Before his rise to TV fame, Labbett had an impressive background as a math and PE teacher and was a regular competitor in various quiz tournaments. His quizzing prowess was so formidable that he even represented Wales at the European Quiz Championships.

In 2009, his deep well of general knowledge and competitive spirit earned him a spot as one of the original chasers on The Chase, where he quickly became known for dashing contestants’ hopes of winning big cash prizes.

Given his imposing physical presence and mental agility, it’s easy to see why viewers might assume "The Beast" was a fitting moniker for someone of his stature and quizzing capability. But the truth behind the nickname is actually a clever play on words related to Labbett’s surname. "La bête," the French phrase for "the beast," bears a striking resemblance to his last name, and thus, the nickname was born.

This revelation has left many fans of the show in shock, with several taking to social media to express their surprise.

One fan on X (formerly known as Twitter) exclaimed, "Wait, am I the last person to find out that The Beast on The Chase was called that because ‘La bête’ is French for beast and his last name is Labbett!? I genuinely thought it was another 'big lad' type of name!" Others quickly chimed in, sharing that they too were "today years old" when they learned the truth behind the iconic nickname.

ITV

While Labbett’s nickname might be the most surprising, he’s not the only chaser to have a story behind their title.

Each chaser on The Chase has a distinct nickname that adds to their character on the show. Anne Hegerty, who is known as "The Governess," revealed that she was initially going to be called "The Headmistress."

However, during rehearsals, host Bradley Walsh began referring to her as "The Governess," a title that Hegerty found more fitting and, in her words, "kinky." The name stuck, and it’s now an integral part of her on-screen persona.

Similarly, Darragh Ennis, another chaser, was initially set to be called "The Professor." However, Ennis, who works in academia at the University of Oxford, felt that the title "Professor" should be earned and opted instead for "The Menace," a nickname that still carries the sense of intellectual challenge without the academic connotations.

Instagram/@markthebeastlabbett

These nicknames have become beloved by fans and are as much a part of the show as the quizzing itself. For Labbett, "The Beast" not only reflects his formidable presence on the show but also pays homage to his surname in a way that is both clever and memorable.

As fans continue to tune in to watch The Chase, these stories add an extra layer of intrigue to the already thrilling game show.

Mark Labbett's nickname, 'The Beast,' isn't just about his formidable presence; it reflects a deeper psychological phenomenon known as 'labeling theory.' This concept, explored by Dr. Dan Ariely, a behavioral economist, emphasizes how labels can shape perceptions and behaviors. According to Ariely, identifying oneself with a strong label can enhance performance in specific contexts, like quizzing competitions.

In this case, Labbett's nickname may bolster his confidence and competitive edge on the show. Understanding the impact of such labels can help individuals harness their strengths in challenging environments.

The revelation of Mark Labbett's nickname stems from a play on words rather than mere physicality, highlighting the power of storytelling in public persona development. Relationship expert Dr. Alexandra Solomon emphasizes that narratives shape how we view ourselves and others. She notes that creating a compelling personal narrative can enhance one's authenticity and connection with audiences.

For fans, understanding the story behind 'The Beast' fosters a sense of intimacy and relatability with Labbett. Crafting a strong personal narrative can be a valuable tool for individuals looking to enhance their public image.

In exploring the origin of Mark Labbett's nickname, we see how labels can influence perceptions and performance. Dr. Dan Ariely's insights into labeling theory remind us that names and identities can shape our experiences. To leverage this understanding effectively, individuals should consider how they define themselves in various contexts, using empowering labels that resonate with their strengths.

Additionally, as Dr. Alexandra Solomon suggests, crafting a personal narrative can enhance connections with others. By embracing and sharing their unique stories, individuals can foster greater authenticity and relatability.