It has been seven years since the distinctive figures of the walk-on girls graced the oche at Professional Darts Corporation (PDC) events. Their roles were discontinued in 2018 following accusations of sexism, a move that sparked significant outrage from fans and players. A petition for their reinstatement, backed by legends like Raymond van Barneveld, ultimately failed to bring about a permanent return to the main tour.
Life After the PDC: New Careers and Ambassadorships
Despite the PDC's stance, two of the most famous former walk-on girls, Charlotte Wood and Daniella Allfree, made a notable comeback at the World Seniors Matchplay in October 2024. The duo, both aged 37, represented the old guard at the event and have since been appointed as long-term ambassadors for the World Seniors Darts Tour (WSDT).
For Charlotte Wood, the initial axing was a major professional and financial blow. She revealed that around 80% of her income came from darts work. Today, she remains connected to the sport through exhibition events and UK signings for the WSDT. Beyond darts, Wood has built a portfolio featuring TV commercials for brands like Colgate and DFS, alongside presenting roles on shopping channels QVC and Ideal World.
Her long-time colleague, Daniella Allfree, also serves as a WSDT ambassador. She recently launched her 2026 lingerie calendar, marking it as her tenth and final edition. This is her first solo calendar venture, as Wood stepped back to focus on other business interests. Allfree maintains a strong social media presence and has completed commercial work for major retailers including Asda and Matalan.
From the Oche to the Spotlight: Media, Acting and Management
Other former walk-on girls have forged impressive paths in diverse industries. Ali Drew, now 35, has built a substantial media career. She works as a presenter for DAZN's boxing coverage and reports on her hometown club, Cardiff City FC. Drew gained wider fame on MTV's Ex on the Beach and runs her own dog fashion brand, Animal Attire.
Jess Impiazzi has successfully transitioned into acting. The 36-year-old has appeared in the BBC drama Strike: Troubled Blood and several films. She also co-hosts the podcast Let's Clear the Air and is working on a new movie titled Jitters.
In the world of sports management, Sammi Marsh-Wade (36) has stayed deeply involved in darts. She is the manager of top player James Wade, who is also her husband. Like Wood and Allfree, she is a WSDT ambassador and continues modelling work on QVC.
New Chapters: Family Life and Relocation
For some, life after darts led to a focus on family. Hazel O'Sullivan shifted her attention to football after beginning a relationship with professional footballer Andros Townsend. The couple, who have two children, recently relocated to Thailand following Townsend's transfer to Kanchanaburi Power, keeping their private life largely out of the public eye.
The legacy of the walk-on girls remains a poignant chapter in modern darts history. While the PDC has not reversed its 2018 decision, the individuals themselves have demonstrably moved on, carving out successful and varied careers far beyond the walk-on music and bright lights of the oche.
