Russ Bray: The Legendary Voice of Darts Steps Back from the Oche

16 January 2026 Sports Commentary

The End of an Era for Darts’ Most Recognisable Voice

Russ Bray, born 22 June 1957, is an English darts referee who works for the Professional Darts Corporation (PDC) as an ambassador, known as ‘The Voice’ due to his unique style of calling and his raspy voice, and was inducted into the PDC Hall of Fame in 2024. Bray stepped down from being a full-time referee following the 2023–24 PDC World Darts Championship final following a 28 year career. His distinctive raspy tones and signature calls, including his famous ‘Onnnnne hundred and eighty!’, have become synonymous with professional darts worldwide.

A Career Built on Personality and Precision

Bray was contracted to call for the PDC in 1996 and was given his debut at the World Matchplay in Blackpool. Throughout his remarkable career, he officiated some of the sport’s most memorable moments. He was the caller when Phil Taylor hit the PDC’s first-ever televised nine-darter and the world’s second ever live televised nine-darter in 2002 at the same event. Previously, Bray worked as a police traffic officer before pursuing his passion for darts.

In a recent interview, PDC referee Russ Bray revealed the hardest players he had to officiate while on the stage. Surprisingly, the slower the player, the harder it is for him personally to maintain concentration. He explained that faster players keep referees more focused, reducing the chance of errors.

Beyond the Oche: A Lasting Legacy

While he may no longer be centre stage at the World Championship, Bray was appointed as a PDC ambassador following his retirement, and was also inducted into its Hall of Fame. His influence extends beyond the stage. He was the referee in the PDC’s first ever video game, PDC World Championship Darts, and also became the voice of Feasters, a microwave food chain, whilst providing voiceover work for advertising from Coral, Ladbrokes, Cash Converters & McCoy’s Crisps.

The darts community continues to celebrate Bray’s contributions to the sport. His natural calling style, developed without formal instruction, helped transform darts into the entertainment spectacle it is today. For fans worldwide, Russ Bray’s voice will forever be intertwined with the excitement and drama of professional darts, ensuring his legacy endures for generations to come.