ITV is set to bring back iconic gameshow Bullseye as a permanent series later this year, with Freddie Flintoff expected to sign on as full-time host.
The revival comes after the Christmas special’s huge success, which aired in December 2024 and marked the show’s return after nearly two decades.
The former cricketer and Top Gear presenter, 47, is reportedly close to finalising a deal with ITV following two months of negotiations to secure him as the new face of the beloved darts-themed programme.
It will be one of Flintoff’s first return to screens since his nightmare crash while filming Top Gear in 2022, which left him with multiple broken ribs and serious facial injuries.
The Christmas special proved to be ITV’s most-watched programme during its broadcast week, drawing over 3.3 million viewers.
Flintoff is reportedly “ready” to return to Bullseye
ITV
The festive episode outperformed established shows including The Chase and The 1% Club, topping ITV’s ratings across both Saturday and Sunday.
The impressive viewership figures put pressure on channel executives to commission a full series, responding to overwhelming audience demand.
A TV insider told The Sun: “This was a no-brainer for ITV but they knew that a big part of the success of the Christmas special was down to its new host.”
“So they’ve spent the past two months trying to convince him to take the plunge and it looks like Freddie is ready to make the commitment.”
Bulleye’s Christmas return proved hugely popular
ITV
Flintoff only recently returned to TV after his 2022 horror crash on Top Gear
ITV
Flintoff had previously expressed his enthusiasm for the show, stating: “I love the darts and Bullseye was one of my favourite shows as a kid.”
“Can’t quite believe I’ll get to host this Christmas special. You can’t beat a bit of Bully!” he said ahead of the Christmas specials, referencing a famous catchphrase from the original show.
Darts have long been a pastime of the former cricketer who even holds the record for the world’s longest distance to throw a bullseye of 5.05 meters.
The Guinness World record was achieved as part of the Sports Relief challenge in 2012.
The holiday reboot featured darts sensation Luke Littler
ITV
“You can keep your cricket. That’s a real sport right there — darts,” he declared upon landing the incredible shot.
The show is planned to return to its traditional Sunday teatime slot, mirroring its original scheduling during its heyday.
The Christmas special featured a memorable appearance by teenage darts sensation Luke Littler, who achieved a perfect 180 score with his first three throws.
The original Bullseye ran from 1981 to 1995 with Jim Bowen as host, before a brief revival in 2006 featuring Dave Spikey.
