Wayne Mardle has confirmed he will be part of Sky Sports' coverage of the Premier League Darts on Thursday night, after fans expressed concern following his emotional video about the death of his wife. The iconic darts commentator shared a heartfelt message on TikTok, opening up about the 'brutal' grief he continues to experience.
Donna Mardle passed away in 2024 at the age of 52 after a short illness. The couple had been married for 22 years. In the video, Mardle said: 'This is a first for me, I'm having one of those days. My wife Donna died on December 11, 2024, so about 430 odd days ago. It doesn't feel like progress, it is absolutely brutal.'
He added: 'It is a process, so I'm told and you go through stages. You don't go through stages. You go through phases. So however you're feeling is how you're feeling, don't worry about it. I used to literally go everyday to Donna's graveside. I haven't been there since Christmas Day and it is now February 21. I don't feel guilty, I just feel like I can't do it because it beats me.'
Mardle reassured fans on X (formerly Twitter) that he would be commentating as usual, writing: 'I've had a many messages and texts over the last hour or so. I'm ok. I assure you, you'll hear me spouting absolute tripe as usual on Thursday at the Premier League. Loves!'
The three-time PDC major runner-up received an outpouring of support, including from Aston Villa defender Matty Cash, who said: 'Legend mate, stay strong x.'
