Gary Lineker confirmed as host of bold new Netflix show involving Luke Littler with huge cash prize

Aug 26, 2026 - 21:00
Gary Lineker confirmed as host of bold new Netflix show involving Luke Littler with huge cash prize

Gary Lineker is set to host a new Netflix show called ‘Beat Luke Littler’ where contestants have to do exactly what the name says.

The former Match of the Day presenter will lead the live programme, alongside popular TV star Richard Osman and Littler.

Gary Lineker presents BBC coverage of the FA Cup semi-final between Crystal Palace and Aston Villa
Lineker, who left the BBC last year, is returning to hosting live TV with ‘Beat Luke Littler’
Getty

Lineker and co. will take to the screen on October 30, with contestants able to face the darts World No.1.

The show will begin with open qualifying rounds before a group of 20 lucky players will take on Littler live on Netflix.

They are all going to face the back-to-back world champion on the oche in a high-pressure single leg of darts.

The eventual winner of the show will take home an incredible £501,000.

As Lineker hosts and Littler plays, Osman will be an expert analyst looking at all the numbers and stats throughout.

Gary Lineker returns to live TV

‘Beat Luke Littler’ will be Lineker’s first job hosting live sport since he departed the BBC last year.

Netflix have handed him the opportunity to continue his TV work following the success of his Rest is Football podcast at the World Cup, which was broadcast on the platform this summer.

The podcast is now also going to be staying on Netflix for the Premier League season, as their partnership thrives.

On his new presenting job, Lineker said: “I am delighted to be deepening my relationship with Netflix after such a brilliant experience with The Rest Is Football at the World Cup.

“And Beat Luke Littler feels like exactly the kind of unpredictable, live event television that gets me excited – I cannot wait to see who fancies their chances.”

Luke Littler lifts the PDC World Darts Championship
Back-to-back darts world champion Littler will be facing 20 amateur contestants
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Meanwhile, Osman, who will be in a similar role to his former position on BBC gameshow Pointless, said: “As a huge darts fan, and proud owner of a signed photo of Jocky Wilson, I couldn’t be more excited to join the amazing Beat Luke Littler live show.

“He’s the greatest player in the world. But 20 legs in a row? I honestly think someone is going to win that £501k. It’s going to be an incredible night.”

Why did Lineker leave the BBC?

Lineker’s new home appears to be Netflix after he left the BBC in controversial circumstances last May.

His 26-year tenure came to an end days after he apologised for sharing a post which led to accusations of anti-semitism.

The ex-England striker came under fire for re-sharing a pro-Gaza video which likened supporters of Israel to rats.

The post was soon deleted but not before it was widely viewed and sparked calls for the BBC and him to part ways.

Gary Lineker speaking on BBC
Lineker’s time at the BBC ended on a sour note, but he’s found a new home on Netflix
Getty

It was initially revealed to be a mutual decision for Lineker to leave, but he later revealed that that was not the case.

Now though, he continues to thrive on Netflix and he’s swapping football for darts in his latest venture.

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