Freddie Flintoff to host Bullseye reboot in first new series since Top Gear crash

Freddie Flintoff to host Bullseye reboot in first new series since Top Gear crash

As a cinephile with a soft spot for nostalgia, I must say, I am thrilled about Freddie Flintoff‘s return to our screens with the iconic Bullseye reboot! Being a child of the ’80s, I vividly remember the original series and the legendary Jim Bowen. The thought of Flintoff in the hosting chair for this Christmas special has me buzzing like a dartboard!


As a passionate movie critic, I’m thrilled to share that the charismatic Freddie Flintoff is all set for a grand TV revival! The former cricketing legend and Top Gear presenter has been announced as the host of ITV’s freshly minted Bullseye reboot. Get ready to experience the magic of this iconic game show once more, with Flintoff steering the ship!

For a special Christmas edition in 2024, Flintoff is set to host one of the nation’s cherished game shows, marking its exciting return to our television screens.

Originally airing on ITV during the ’80s, the dart-themed television program made a comeback in 2006, with Dave Spikey stepping into the host position.

Indeed, the initial show undeniably garnered significant success for the network, largely due to the entertaining hosting by comedian Jim Bowen, who left an indelible impression on viewers.

Freddie Flintoff to host Bullseye reboot in first new series since Top Gear crash

The series primarily revolves around the sport of darts, where three competing teams battle it out for cash prizes and additional rewards. Throughout the show, the popular mascot, Bully, is always in close proximity.

Speaking about the upcoming Christmas special, Flintoff expressed his enthusiasm saying, “Darts are among my favorites, and Bullseye was one of my cherished childhood shows.

“Can’t quite believe I’ll get to host this Christmas special. You can’t beat a bit of Bully!”

Likewise, Katie Rawcliffe, head of entertainment and daytime programming at ITV, expressed: “Bullseye returns, and we’re thrilled to have Freddie Flintoff come back to ITV as well.

“It’s a real treat to have both as key parts of our Christmas schedule on ITV1 and ITVX this year.”

Recently, you might have caught Freddie Flintoff on your screens during the second season of Field of Dreams. However, production came to a halt after an incident involving Flintoff occurred at the Top Gear test track at Dunsfold Aerodrome in Surrey back in December 2022.

After that fateful collision, I found myself nursing facial and rib wounds. Subsequently, I was whisked away by helicopter to the hospital for treatment.

After the incident occurred, the BBC temporarily halted production on Top Gear season 34, and later announced that they would be putting the Top Gear format “on hiatus for an extended period of time”.

In an interview with TopMob magazine, Grand Tour producer (previously of Top Gear) Andy Wilman talked about the future of Top Gear. He remarked that it was heartbreaking what happened to Freddie and it’s great to see him again in Freddie Flintoff’s Field of Dreams. However, whether or not Top Gear will return is a separate matter altogether.

As a film enthusiast, even though it’s disheartening to hear that Flintoff might not be returning to cricket, I’m thrilled at the prospect of seeing him shine as a presenter on a beloved game show.

Michael Mannes, the managing director at 12 Yard Productions, expressed delight about acquiring the rights to Bullseye, a famously recognized game show: “We’re thrilled to bring this legendary program back!

The timing seems ideal given the current surge in darts’ popularity. Freddie, with his hosting skills, is just the right fit, and we eagerly anticipate the return of the show on ITV.

Bullseye will be returning to ITV and ITVX later this year.

Read More

2024-10-04 13:36