Sky Sports darts presenter and Radio X DJ Polly James has delivered a defiant message to online critics who have targeted her for her prominent body art.
A Defiant Stance Against Online Negativity
The 38-year-old broadcaster from Cardiff, a leading voice for Sky Sports at major events like the recent PDC World Darts Championship at Alexandra Palace, has seen her visibility soar. With that fame has come unwelcome commentary, particularly about the large rose tattoo that spans her shoulder, upper chest, and neck.
Speaking exclusively to the Mirror, James stated she remains entirely unbothered by the personal jibes. "I do get a lot of crap about the neck tattoo," she admitted. "More so now, but that is because there are more eyes on darts, but it goes over my head."
She drew a clear line, however, when it comes to critiques of her professional abilities. "Say what you like about my appearance, I do not give a... but please don't criticise my work, because that really hits hard and that generally doesn't happen," James asserted.
From Ally Pally Fan to Sky Sports Star
James's journey in darts began not in front of the camera, but in the crowd. Her first visit to Alexandra Palace was 16 years ago in 2009 as a spectator, where she quickly developed a deep passion for the sport.
She initially hesitated to merge that fandom with her career in radio. "The first time I started working at the darts, it was one of those things where I didn't know if I wanted to mix pleasure with work," she explained.
The opportunity arose in 2019 when she was approached to conduct post-match interviews for the Premier League. "I just thought I would love to do that and I would give it a shot and it went from there," she said. Her success led to a role with Sky Sports the following year.
The Heart of a True Darts Fan
Despite her professional role, James emphasises she remains a dedicated fan at her core. "I am on their side, I am not on the other side, so to speak. I just have an incredible role to play," she said of the players and supporters.
She praised darts for its unique, inclusive appeal. "I think darts is one of the most charming sports in the world. You've got grandma and grandpa sat together in the crowd, then you've got a group of 20-year-old lads. You don't get that at any other sports."
Reflecting on her enduring connection to the game, James concluded: "I grew up with it, I enjoyed it, I clicked with it and now I can't ever see it not being in my life." Her story is a testament to turning a personal passion into a prominent broadcasting career, all while refusing to let online negativity dim her spark.
