Bullseye is set to return to ITV with new host Andrew “Freddie” Flintoff.

       Flintoff will reportedly take over the mantle of the late comedian Jim Bowen, who fronted the darts-themed game show from 1981 until 1995, for a Christmas television special.

       Mr Flintoff said: “I love the darts and Bullseye was one of my favourite shows as a kid. I can’t quite believe I’ll get to host this Christmas special.”

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       Echoing Bowen’s catchphrase, he added: “You can’t beat a bit of Bully.”

       Flintoff last appeared on television in August, presenting the BBC documentary Freddie Flintoff’s Field Of Dreams on Tour. The programme marked the first time he had spoken about the crash he suffered while filming Top Gear.

       The incident, which left the former England cricketer with facial and rib injuries, happened at the motoring show’s test track at Dunsfold Aerodrome in Surrey in December 2022.

       The BBC later announced that it had “rested” Top Gear for the foreseeable future.

       In the documentary, Flintoff admitted it had been “a lot harder than I thought” to shake off the crash, after he struggled with anxiety, nightmares, and flashbacks.

       Flintoff has made a steady return to the public eye since, rejoining England’s backroom staff for the T20 series against the West Indies earlier this year, and as the head coach of the Northern Superchargers in The Hundred.

       Bullseye tests contestants’ darts skills as well as their general knowledge as they compete for cash and prizes.

       The game show was revived on Challenge TV in 2006, hosted by the comedian Dave Spikey, but was cancelled after two series.

       Katie Rawcliffe, the director of entertainment and daytime commissioning at ITV said: “Bullseye is back and we can’t wait to welcome Freddie Flintoff back to ITV too.

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