The Chase star apologises for kissing Bradley Walsh's wife in front of '20 million people'

Gary Wilmot has apologised to Bradley Walsh for kissing his wife in front of “20 million” television viewers. The lauded actor also confessed during his recent stint on The Chase Celebrity Special that Donna Derby was his first on-stage kiss.

Gary, whose real name is Harold Owen Wilmot, initially carved out a career as a comedian and impressionist before moving into theatre and the West End. As well as appearing in a number of pantomimes across the country, the 70-year-old enjoyed a fruitful stint with The New Shakespeare Company and has gone on to star in everything from Wicked to Fireman Sam.

His most recent television credit is The Chase Celebrity special, where he, Daisy Arwen Campbell, Strictly Come Dancing’s Neil Jones and Richard Bacon were tasked with working together to bring down the Chaser. During the programme, Bradley, 64, revealed he and Gary go way back.

“My wife Donna danced with you on a Royal Variety performance, ‘Luck Be a Lady’ tonight I think it was,” the Chase presenter said. “Absolutely,” replied Gary. “I don’t know if you know this but your wife Donna, was my first ever stage kiss.”

Blindsided, Bradley leant over his podium to hear more from the Copy Cats favourite. “It was in front of 20 million viewers, but it was a stage kiss,” Gary continued. “So that was it, so I apologise.”

Bradley said that the actor did not need to apologise, adding that Donna simply “adores” him. “And me her,” Gary added.

Former Law & Order: UK actor Bradley and choreographer Donna initially struck up a relationship in 1992 after being matched by friend Brian Conley, 63.

The pair tied the knot in 1997 before welcoming their 26-year-old son Barney into the world in 1998. Bradley also shares a 42-year-old daughter named Hayley from a previous relationship.

As well as having choreography credits on the Miss World competition, Donna is a former dancer.

She is best known for appearing in the music video for Robert Palmer’s Simply Irresistible.

Between 1987 and 1988, she appeared on six episodes of The Kenny Everett Television Show.

In an interview with The Mirror, Bradley revealed he wouldn’t swap his wife “for the world”.

“Donna isn't just beautiful; she's the most fantastic wife and mother,” he added.

Tune in to see Gary, Bradley and co. take on The Chase tonight from 8.05pm on ITV1 and ITVX.