Former Bullseye host Jim Bowen dies aged 80
He was best known for hosting Bullseye
Last updated 14th Mar 2018
Jim Bowen, best known for hosting the darts-based gameshow Bullseye, has died aged 80. His wife confirmed the sad news earlier today (14th March).
Jim grew up in Lancashire where he worked as a deputy headmaster and started his career as a stand-up comedian on the club circuit. It was in 1981 that he began hosting Bullseye and became a household name. The popular TV show lasted for 14 years.
During his time presenting Bullseye Jim was known for his famous catchphrases, "Super, smashing, great", "let's see what you could have won" and "you can't beat a bit of Bully".
Bullseye was a hugely popular programme while it was on air and at one point it had 17.5 million viewers.
Tributes have been coming in for Jim from fans and celebrities alike.
Actor Will Mellor tweeted, 'Sad news about Jim Bowen! Ya can’t beat a bit o bully!! #RIP'.
Former boxer Frank Bruno said, 'we worked together many times had a lot of laughs together.'
And part time pro dart player Kevin Painter also paid tribute to the former TV presenter saying, 'RIP Jim Bowen 😖 pleasure to have met him a couple of times, funny fella too.'
Fans have also been taking to Twitter calling the popular comedian 'the king of Sunday afternoon telly'. Another said, 'Couldn’t beat a bit of Bully, R.I.P Jim Bowen "Super, smashing, great." 😞'.
As well as his work presenting Bullseye Jim also had a number of TV acting roles, including parts in Last Of The Summer Wine, Jonathan Creek, and the second series of Peter Kay's Phoenix Nights.
Our thoughts are with Jim's friends and family at this difficult time.