Luke Littler admits surprise over tough line-up in Netflix darts show

World darts number one Luke Littler has admitted he expected to face casual pub players on his recent Netflix show rather than experienced names. The broadcast, titled 'Beat Luke Littler', offered a cash prize of £501,000 and was streamed globally last month.

The Contestants

While the 24-strong field included amateurs such as an Australian jockey, a bin man, and a Nando's manager, anyone without a PDC Tour card was also allowed to enter. Littler stated he knew just over half of the competitors when the line-up was released, including leading junior players Mitchell Lawrie and Zach Griffiths, alongside Katie Sheldon and Fallon Sherrock. Sherrock advanced through qualifiers and a public vote after missing a Tour card.

The Showdown

Littler won 14 matches in a row during the event at Manchester Central before losing to Sherrock in a single leg of 501. Sherrock won the right to throw first by hitting the nearest the bull and checked out in 15 darts to claim the top prize. Sky Sports pundit Mark Webster criticized Sherrock's inclusion, though Littler considered her a worthy winner.

Future Plans

Littler described having his own Netflix show as bonkers and confirmed he is open to filming a second series to help grow the sport. He is now turning his attention to defending his Grand Slam of Darts title, where he will face Beau Greaves and Niels Zonneveld in the group stage.

Context

Fallon Sherrock previously made history in December 2019 by becoming the first female player to win a match at the PDC World Championship, later receiving an MBE for her services to darts. The PDC Tour card system acts as the main professional circuit in darts, meaning players without cards must rely on qualifying events or special pathways to enter major tournaments.