Former darts professional Chris Mason has expressed surprise at the overwhelmingly positive reaction to his commentary partnership with Wayne Mardle. The duo, who have become a regular fixture on ITV's darts coverage, have been praised by fans and colleagues alike for their on-screen chemistry.
Speaking to Online Darts, Mason admitted he was taken aback by the acclaim. 'Am I surprised at the love? Absolutely, I am,' he said. 'Because we're divisive characters. We have different ways of going about things. It's Marmite, isn't it?' He added that the only opinions that matter to him are those of his peers and the audience, and noted that many industry colleagues have reached out to commend their work.
Mason credited Mardle, Matchroom, and the Professional Darts Corporation (PDC) for having the courage to pair them together. 'That is the most fun I've ever had at any tournament. It was incredible,' he remarked. The partnership is set to continue at this weekend's UK Open.
The collaboration is particularly noteworthy given their history of public disagreements on social media. Despite past differences, there is no sign of friction in their broadcasting work, which Mason described as relaxed and akin to 'chatting and having a laugh.'
Mason began his punditry career in 2007 while still playing, while Mardle transitioned to broadcasting in 2011 after retiring. Their partnership has been a highlight of ITV's coverage of the PDC World Series of Darts, which has attracted strong viewership on ITV4.
