By Karim Hammam
Fallon Sherrock defeated world darts number one Luke Littler in Netflix's first UK live entertainment event, "Beat Luke Littler," on Friday at Manchester Central arena, claiming the £501,000 prize.
Shock victory at Manchester Central
The show, hosted by Gary Lineker and Richard Osman, featured 20 amateur challengers attempting to beat Littler in a single leg. Littler comfortably dispatched the first 14 contestants, including teenagers Mackinley Cooper-Johnson and Jayden Walker, before Sherrock, the 15th challenger, ended his run after about two and a half hours.
Controversy over amateur status
Sherrock's participation drew scrutiny because she holds an MBE for services to darts and has competed in the PDC World Championship and won the Women's World Matchplay in 2022. Netflix classified anyone without a PDC tour card as eligible, allowing her to compete.
Reaction and ratings
"I can't put into words how much this means," Sherrock told Lineker after her win, greeted by huge cheers and a hug from her son. Littler praised her as "world class" and suggested a repeat next year. Sources said audience numbers held steady against BBC's "Celebrity Traitors" and rose after that show ended.
Industry implications
The format, created by Manchester-based Workerbee, aims to bring working-class audiences to Netflix and expand its live event slate. Both "Beat Luke Littler" and "Celebrity Traitors" are produced by companies owned by global group Banijay, guaranteeing a winner in the ratings battle.
