For more than 20 years, Alan Warriner-Little was a familiar and trusted presence in televised darts. A former top-level professional with major titles to his name, he successfully transitioned from the oche to the commentary box, becoming one of the sport’s most recognisable pundits. But that long-standing relationship with broadcast darts has now come to an abrupt and painful end.
The 63-year-old has spoken out after discovering he had been dropped from upcoming television coverage, expressing deep frustration at how the decision was handled. According to Warriner-Little, the most upsetting part was not the decision itself, but the complete lack of communication after two decades of service.
“It would have been nice, or professional, after 20 years’ service to at least be told,” he wrote publicly. “I have been thrown in the gutter. Good luck to everyone.”
The blunt wording of his message immediately struck a chord across the darts community. Fans were quick to rally around the former star, many describing the situation as disrespectful and unnecessary, especially given his long contribution to the sport both as a player and a broadcaster.
Warriner-Little enjoyed a successful playing career before moving into media. He won multiple major titles and was once ranked among the best in the world, earning widespread respect for his tactical understanding of the game. That experience translated naturally into broadcasting, where his calm analysis and player-focused insight made him a valued part of television coverage for years.
Throughout his time behind the microphone, he worked across numerous major tournaments, offering commentary and punditry during some of the most memorable moments in modern darts. His presence became a constant during an era in which the sport grew significantly in popularity, reaching wider audiences and attracting a new generation of fans.
The broadcaster recently announced a refreshed on-screen lineup ahead of the new season, introducing new presenters and returning pundits while confirming commentators who will feature in upcoming tournaments. However, Warriner-Little’s name was notably absent — and, according to him, no explanation was offered privately beforehand.
The silence surrounding his omission has left him questioning not just the decision, but the professionalism behind it. He suggested that a simple conversation would have gone a long way after two decades of commitment, adding that he would now be “reviewing everything” he does moving forward.
The situation has sparked broader discussion about how long-serving figures are treated as sports coverage continues to modernise. With darts undergoing rapid change — driven by younger stars, growing commercial interest and evolving broadcast styles — familiar voices are increasingly being replaced in favour of fresh faces. While change is expected, many believe it should be handled with transparency and respect.
Adding to what has already been a challenging period, Warriner-Little has also faced recent health issues. He underwent a medical procedure earlier this winter to address heart-related concerns, making the timing of his removal from coverage feel particularly difficult.
Meanwhile, darts continues to surge forward, with emerging stars capturing headlines and reshaping the sport’s public image. Record-breaking performances, lucrative sponsorships and packed arenas highlight how far the game has come. Yet Warriner-Little’s experience serves as a reminder that progress can sometimes come at a personal cost.
For someone who devoted decades to darts — first as a competitor and later as a broadcaster — the manner of his exit has left a lasting mark. Whether this moment leads to new opportunities or signals the end of his broadcasting career remains unclear. What is certain, however, is that his departure has reignited debate about loyalty, communication and respect within modern sports media.
After 20 years of service, one of darts’ most experienced voices has been left feeling discarded — and the echoes of that decision are still being felt across the sport.
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