Jenny Ryan is a prominent English quizzer, singer, and television personality, celebrated for her role as one of the six chasers on the popular ITV game show The Chase, where she is affectionately known as “The Vixen.” Her journey in the world of quizzing began with her appearance on University Challenge in 2003, where she showcased her impressive knowledge and helped the University of Leeds reach the semi-finals. This early success paved the way for her participation in various quiz shows, including Mastermind, where she chose Buffy the Vampire Slayer as her specialist subject, and the engaging series Are You an Egghead? in 2008 and 2009.
Ryan’s notable achievements continued as she became a member of the team The Gamblers on Only Connect, leading them to victory in the third series in 2010. Her expertise and charisma have also graced other quiz formats such as Fifteen to One and Weakest Link, and she has contributed to the quiz community by writing questions for game shows. In 2015, she joined The Chase as a chaser, where her quick wit and charm quickly earned her a dedicated fan base. Her nickname, “The Vixen,” reflects her cleverness and cunning, attributes that have made her a standout personality on the show.
In addition to her quiz show success, Ryan has ventured into entertainment beyond quizzing. In 2017, she participated in Let’s Sing and Dance for Comic Relief alongside her fellow chasers, winning the competition with a captivating performance. She also co-hosts the podcast Fingers On Buzzers with comedian Lucy Porter, where they delve into the world of quiz and game shows, further showcasing her passion for the genre.
Ryan’s versatility extends to music as well; she plays the ukulele and has participated in various musical competitions, including The X Factor: Celebrity in 2019, where she made a remarkable comeback to reach the finals. With her dynamic presence and multifaceted talents, Jenny Ryan continues to inspire audiences and contribute significantly to the entertainment landscape.
