ITV The Chase fans heartbroken as ‘brilliant’ teacher who won £100k jackpot died just weeks later
A beloved educator from Greater Manchester has died just weeks after recording his historic victory on popular ITV quiz show The Chase.
Tim McCarthy, 64, died in July following a prolonged battle with illness, having filmed his episode, where he won a huge £100,000 jackpot, whilst aware he had only months remaining.
The Tyldesley local participated in the programme whilst terminally ill, with his widow Rachel revealing he was gravely unwell during filming.
The episode was broadcast on the evening Wednesday, August 27, and prompted an outpouring of emotion from viewers who discovered McCarthy had died before seeing himself on screen.
Social media filled with tributes as fans expressed their sorrow.
“RIP Tim,” one viewer posted, whilst another commented about the sadness of learning he had passed away shortly after filming concluded.
Another commented: “RIP Tim – Legend #tyldesley,” with a third adding: “#TheChase so happy to see Tim win there….RIP.”
“RIP Tim, just seen he’s died, could tell with how he was spending money he was a wonderful guy #TheChase.”
Someone else penned: “#TheChase woooooo that was tense! I’m glad they won it though… RIP Tim.”
“Obviously with their permission that this episode is being aired but I can’t begin to imagine how difficult it must be for Tim’s family to watch. RIP Tim #TheChase,” another pointed out.
McCarthy dedicated 42 years to education as a physics and mathematics instructor, serving as principal of Stockport Academy and establishing Aurora Academies Trust as its founding chief executive.
The educator graduated from the University of Manchester with a physics degree at just 19 years old.
His innovative approach to education gained national attention when he wagered that his pupils would achieve better GCSE results.
After winning the bet, he distributed the proceeds amongst students and staff members.
One Metro journalist, who studied under McCarthy, credited him with transforming the prospects of 650 pupils at Stockport Academy.
Stuart Keane, a close friend, described him as possessing “a brilliant mind,” whilst Rachel McCarthy remembered her husband as “the most clever man I ever knew.”
During his appearance, McCarthy stunned fellow contestants by accepting an elevated offer of £95,000, ultimately securing a £100,000 prize pot alongside teammate Lorcan. Each contestant walked away with £50,000 from their successful performance.
The former headteacher revealed his intentions to allocate the entire sum to his family, specifically mentioning home improvements.
He explained they needed proper roofing for their extension, which became “too cold in the winter and too hot in the summer.”
“I genuinely don’t want any money, I’m here just to have fun,” McCarthy stated during the programme. Upon securing his share, he remarked, “As long as I’ve got £50 for a slap up meal that’ll do me.”
Appearing on the quiz show fulfilled a lifelong ambition, according to his widow Rachel, who confirmed it featured prominently on his bucket list.
Family and friends assembled at The Colliers pub in Manchester to view McCarthy’s posthumous television appearance together.
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His friend Stuart Keane revealed that McCarthy had kept the outcome secret, saying “He never told us who won, so we can’t wait to see what happened.”
Rachel McCarthy acknowledged the emotional challenge of viewing the programme, telling the BBC that watching would prove “very difficult.”
The broadcast moved many viewers to tears, with one social media user writing: “Very rare does a quiz show bring me to almost tears, but seeing Tim McCarthy winning his share of £100k tonight in The Chase for his family when he knew he hadn’t long to live is a rewarding legacy for his bravery.”
Another viewer expressed sympathy for the family’s experience watching the episode air posthumously.