Luke Littler's upcoming Netflix darts show has caused outrage after the lineup of players set to face the world No.1 was revealed, with women's world No.3 Fallon Sherrock among those dubbed "amateurs."
The 24 players will compete in a leg of darts for the chance to win £501,000 as part of Netflix's "Beat Luke Littler" show. However, the revealed players are far from amateurs, as Sherrock, highly-rated talent Jayden Walker, and WDF World Championship finalist Mitchell Lawrie were all included.
Fans Furious Over 'Amateur' Billing
The event had been billed as an amateur competition, and while technically true—as none of the players hold tour cards—fans have been left furious on social media after thousands queued for a chance to throw against the champion.
One fan fumed: "Wasn't it advertised as giving pub dart players a chance to beat Littler. Why am I seeing professional dart players who've played in majors? You've made a right mug out of anyone who queued for hours for this slop of a 'competition'."
Another shared: "I really feel for anyone that spend stupid money on travel and accommodation to get to the auditions only to be turned down. One massive kick in the balls for the majority unfortunately."
Show Details and Selection Process
A third admitted: "Was hoping for bit more of a random lineup, I imagine Netflix would have penciled a few of these names in well before the auditions." And another added: "Is this a joke? I thought it was supposed to be amateurs!"
The show will air on Netflix next Friday (October 30) at 7pm UK time, with Gary Lineker and Richard Osman set to host. Amateurs aged 12 and over had to check out 501 in 24 darts or fewer before facing a production interview. Finalists then faced a judging panel of Phil Taylor, Barry Hearn, and Laura Turner, who selected the 20 competitors to take on Luke Littler for £501,000.
They will now have one leg to try and bag the cash if they can check out before The Nuke. Alongside the star names, the lineup features a Nando's manager, a university student, and a German kindergarten teacher.
