Rising darts star Luke Littler has confirmed his upcoming appearance on the highly-anticipated Christmas special of *Bullseye*, the classic darts-themed game show, which is set to make its return to TV screens. ITV has revived the show, with former cricketer and popular TV personality Freddie Flintoff taking over as the host. The special is expected to air during the Christmas season, marking a fresh chapter for a show that was beloved by millions in the 1980s and 90s.
### **A Modern Star Meets a Classic Show**
Luke Littler, who is only 17 years old, has taken the darts world by storm this year with his impressive skills and rapid rise through the ranks. His confirmation as a special guest on *Bullseye* comes as no surprise to his fans, as Littler’s profile has skyrocketed since his breakthrough at the World Championship in January. Despite his young age, Littler has already made a name for himself as one of the sport’s brightest prospects, captivating audiences with his talent and charisma.
The revival of *Bullseye*—which originally aired from 1981 to 1995 and was hosted by comedian Jim Bowen—is part of ITV’s effort to capitalize on the growing interest in darts. Littler’s inclusion is a testament to his influence on the sport, as he has become a major draw for fans. His popularity on social media is evidence of this: with over 1.3 million followers on Instagram, Littler has effectively brought a new wave of attention to darts, drawing in younger audiences and casual fans alike.
### **Freddie Flintoff Takes the Helm as Host**
For many fans, one of the most exciting aspects of the reboot is seeing Freddie Flintoff in the host’s seat. Flintoff, a beloved figure in British sports and television, will bring his signature charm and humor to the show. Flintoff’s career spans from cricket to TV, with notable hosting stints on shows like *Top Gear*. His return to the small screen in the role of *Bullseye* presenter will be one of his first major television appearances since a serious accident in December 2022, when he was involved in a crash while filming for *Top Gear*. Since then, he has been busy with coaching roles in cricket, and his return to television is being met with eager anticipation.
Flintoff shared his excitement for hosting *Bullseye*, stating: “I love the darts and *Bullseye* was one of my favorite shows as a kid. I can’t quite believe I’ll get to host this Christmas special.” He couldn’t resist echoing one of Jim Bowen’s iconic catchphrases: “You can’t beat a bit of Bully!”
### **A Christmas Special with a Modern Twist**
Although the specific format of the *Bullseye* reboot remains under wraps, fans can expect the show to honor the spirit of the original. In its heyday, *Bullseye* was known for featuring darts players who would compete to win cash prizes and gifts for charities, all while engaging in light-hearted banter with Bowen. In the reboot, it’s likely that Luke Littler will have the chance to showcase his darting prowess, and possibly participate in challenges that pay homage to the classic segments of the original show.
For Littler, this appearance is another milestone in his journey towards becoming a mainstream sports star. He will join the ranks of past darts legends like Eric Bristow, Jocky Wilson, John Lowe, and Bob Anderson—icons who were featured on the original *Bullseye* and who defined an era of darts in the UK. This continuity between past and present underscores ITV’s intention to bridge generations of darts fans, from those who grew up watching the show in the 80s and 90s to those who have only recently discovered the sport through new stars like Littler.
### **Luke Littler’s Meteoric Rise in 2024**
Littler’s story has been one of rapid ascent. At just 17, the Warrington native has already achieved what many professionals spend decades striving for. His breakthrough came at the start of the year when he reached the final of the World Championship at the iconic Alexandra Palace. Although he lost to Luke Humphries, the reigning world No. 1, Littler’s performance earned him widespread acclaim. Since then, he has continued to build on his success, clinching major victories such as the World Series finals and the Players Championship 20. His cumulative prize earnings have already surpassed £625,000—a staggering achievement for someone so young.
Known affectionately as “The Nuke” due to his explosive playing style, Littler’s ability to perform under pressure has quickly become his trademark. His dynamic and confident gameplay has made him a fan favorite, and his youthful energy has helped bring a fresh vibe to the sport. As of now, he is ranked No. 20 in the world, but many believe that he is only scratching the surface of his potential.
### **ITV’s Bet on Darts: A Rebirth of *Bullseye***
The decision to bring back *Bullseye* is a calculated move by ITV, which is looking to tap into the resurgent popularity of darts in the UK. Over the past few years, darts has experienced a renaissance, with larger audiences and higher-profile tournaments contributing to its revival. The increased accessibility of darts events, coupled with the charismatic appeal of new players like Littler, has helped the sport reach a broader audience. ITV hopes that the rebooted *Bullseye* will resonate with both long-time fans and newcomers, blending nostalgia with modern appeal.
The timing of this revival couldn’t be better. The Christmas special promises to bring families together for a fun and festive evening of entertainment, with Littler’s appearance adding an element of excitement for sports fans. Given his status as one of darts’ most promising stars, Littler’s involvement could also draw a younger demographic that might not be familiar with the original series. For ITV, the combination of Freddie Flintoff’s hosting and Littler’s star power is a winning formula, aimed at creating a successful reboot that can capture the same magic the show had decades ago.
### **A New Chapter for Freddie Flintoff and Luke Littler**
For Freddie Flintoff, hosting *Bullseye* marks not just a return to TV but also a reconnection with his own love for darts. The 46-year-old’s fondness for the game and his childhood memories of *Bullseye* make this hosting role particularly special. It’s a role that comes at a time when Flintoff is balancing his sports-related projects, including coaching roles in cricket and inspiring young athletes, with a renewed presence in the entertainment industry.
For Luke Littler, his appearance on the Christmas special of *Bullseye* is more than just another guest spot—it’s an opportunity to solidify his position as a crossover star, moving beyond the darts circuit and into mainstream visibility. It’s a chance for a young athlete to follow in the footsteps of the greats while carving out his own legacy.
As fans eagerly await the Christmas special, the buzz surrounding the return of *Bullseye* reflects a broader trend in the world of darts—a sport that continues to grow in popularity, driven by new talents, high-stakes competitions, and a deep connection to its storied past. Whether the show becomes a hit once again remains to be seen, but with figures like Flintoff and Littler involved, it’s sure to be an entertaining and memorable affair.