Vincent van der Voort has raised concerns about the format of Netflix's new show 'Beat Luke Littler', warning that the £501,000 event carries significant risk because the broadcast ends as soon as a challenger beats the world champion. The former professional discussed the unusual concept on the latest episode of the Darts Draait Door podcast alongside host Damian Vlottes, ahead of Friday evening's event where 20 challengers will each get the chance to beat Littler in a single leg.
“As I understand it, the show is live too. But if someone wins, it's over straight away,” Van der Voort said. “That's quite risky, of course. It could all be over after the first leg. But it's exciting. It's the first time this has been done. We've never seen anything like it, so it will be interesting to see how it unfolds.”
The line-up has also caught the attention of both men. Although the event was initially presented as an opportunity for amateurs, it features several talented and experienced players, including Mitchell Lawrie, Fallon Sherrock and 14-year-old Jayden Walker. “Looking at the names taking part, this is no easy field, is it?” Vlottes remarked, with Van der Voort agreeing: “There are a few big names in there. Mitchell Lawrie, for one. He's an enormous talent.” Van der Voort added that many participants are more experienced than the public might expect: “The rest have all played on the Challenge Tour or other tours, or in the MODUS Super Series. They're all pretty good players.”
Walker's inclusion gave Vlottes pause, as he questioned whether someone of that age should be in contention for such a large prize. Van der Voort understood the concern but believes Netflix is focused on the appeal of the participants: “I understand why it seems strange. But I think Netflix is simply asking: what will be most interesting for us?”
Van der Voort expects a lot from Mitchell Lawrie in particular, believing the 15-year-old Scot could genuinely beat Littler. “Mitchell Lawrie can definitely win a leg against him. That wouldn't be strange at all. He regularly averages over 100,” he said. “Mitchell Lawrie is the one we'll be watching. If he wins a leg, it won't even be a surprise. He's that good.”
Vlottes is also looking forward to seeing Zac Griffiths, having faced him on the Development Tour. “He was a bit of a pest,” Vlottes recalled. “He'd score 140, I'd score 100, and then he'd say, 'Well done, mate.' It was always a slightly condescending little compliment.” Griffiths also reportedly drank from Vlottes's water during their match. “I checked out 72 and he gave me a fist bump. Then he went and drank from my water. That can put me off, and it worked.” Vlottes added: “He could perhaps get inside Littler's head too. So keep an eye on Littler's water, in case Griffiths suddenly starts drinking from it.”
The financial side of the event also came up, with Van der Voort suspecting Littler will receive a substantial fee for taking part. “I honestly have no idea what he's getting for this. But I don't think a young player like that would do it for peanuts. He'll be paid very well.” With £501,000 on offer to whoever beats Littler, Van der Voort concluded: “That's serious money, isn't it? Half a million.”
