Sid Waddell

Sid Waddell (August 10, 1940 – August 11, 2012) was a renowned English sports commentator and television personality, celebrated primarily for his distinctive contributions to the world of darts. Often referred to as the "Voice of Darts," Waddell made a significant impact through his work with major broadcasters such as Granada, Yorkshire Television, the BBC, and Sky Sports. His charismatic commentary style, coupled with his penchant for humor, earned him the playful moniker "Thief of Bad Gags," a title first coined by fellow commentator Dave Lanning.

Throughout his career, Waddell's insightful and entertaining commentary elevated the profile of darts, turning it into a mainstream sport. He was recognized for his contributions to sports media with nominations for two prestigious awards and authored several books that reflected his passion for the game.

Waddell's legacy continued after his passing on August 11, 2012, just one day after he celebrated his 72nd birthday. In a tribute to his influence on the sport, the Professional Darts Corporation (PDC) renamed the World Darts Championship trophy in his honor, officially designating it the Sid Waddell Trophy starting in 2013. This recognition underscores his enduring impact on darts and the affection with which he is remembered by fans and peers alike.