Bullseye star Tony Green dies aged 85

(Picture: Ken McKay/ITV/REX/Shutterstock)

Darts commentator and Bullseye star Tony Green has died at the age of 85.

Born on January 29, 1939, Green made huge contributions to the world of darts and broadcasting after playing for many years as an amateur.

The official page of Bullseye announced the news on social media, as the TV game show wrote: ‘It’s with a very heavy heart that we announce the passing of our dear friend and much loved colleague Mr Tony Green.

‘Tony passed away peacefully today after a long battle with Alzheimer’s.

‘Our love, thoughts and prayers go out to all of Tony’s family, who we hold such affection for, to all of Tony friends and those who were lucky enough to work with him.

‘Thank you Tony for all the memories, all the laughs (and trust us there were many!) and all the special times filming Bullseye together, what wonderful years those were and we are honoured to have shared them with you.

‘You will be missed our dear friend.’

Jim Bowen with Tony Green made a legendary team on Bullseye in the 1980s (Picture: REX/Shutterstock)

Green was the lead BBC commentator for the first British Darts Organisation (BDO) World Championship in 1978 and he remained in this position until the Lakeside World Professional Darts Championships in 2016 – the last one aired by the broadcaster.

It was through his appearance on Sunday afternoon ITV darts show Bullseye that Green became a household name.

Hosted by comedian Jim Bowen, the show saw contestants play for a series of prizes and Green’s commentary became memorable catchphrases, including ‘And Bully’s special prize…’

The show used to attract up to 20 million viewers at its peak in the 1980s.

In December 2010, it was announced on the BDO website that Green had been diagnosed with cancer on the tongue and as a result would not be commentating on the 2011 Lakeside World Darts Championship. He returned in 2012 after a speedy recovery.

Sports blogger Elliot West took to social media with the news, as he wrote: ‘RIP Tony Green. A true legend a brilliant darts commentator and a central part of Bullseye.’

Fans have paid tribute, with Alex Casswell writing on X: ‘If there was ever an essential part of @BullseyeTVshow I’ll always remember then it’s Tony Green’s great commentary, his banter with Jim Bowen and his still iconic catchphrases like “INNNNNN ONNEE!” and “Bully’s special prize!” The world has lost such a great man.’

Fan Neil Watson wrote: ‘Sad news today. Tony Green and Jim Bowen brought a lot of fun and enthusiasm to the show and it is upsetting that they have both left us now. RIP Tony.’

User @Dw_8004 wrote: ‘Without question bullseye was my absolute favourite show when growing up. Perfect Sunday afternoon entertainment. Jim and Tony were perfect together. My condolences to all of Tony’s family, RIP Legend.’

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