Scottish darts veteran John Henderson has praised the influence of rising star Luke Littler, crediting the teenager with revitalizing the sport and drawing in a new wave of young fans and social media influencers.
Henderson, a former Premier League crowd favorite known for his bagpipe-accompanied walk-ons, will compete in the MODUS Super Series Influencer Darts Showdown — a lighthearted event pairing professionals with online personalities. Reflecting on the sport’s evolution, Henderson admitted, “If somebody had told me 10 years ago I’d be playing influencers, I’d have laughed.”
Now 52, Henderson has found success in the MODUS Super Series after losing his PDC Tour Card in 2024. He emphasized Littler’s role in darts’ resurgence: “What he’s done over the past 12 months, everyone’s thinking, ‘I want a piece of that.’ He’s inspired a generation — dartboards are selling, academies are opening, and the youth scene is booming.”
Littler, who captured back-to-back Super Series titles in 2023, has become a social media sensation and a catalyst for cross-platform popularity.
“The event works — people love it,” Henderson added. “It’s fun, relaxed, and gives the audience something different. It’s great to see pros mixing with influencers and just enjoying the game.”
He’ll share the stage with fellow professionals like Robert Thornton, Mervyn King, Richie Burnett, and 12-year-old prodigy Jayden Walker, alongside influencers including YouTuber AngryGinge. “They’re young, fun, and from all sorts of backgrounds. It’s good to unwind, play darts, and have a chat,” Henderson said.
