The highly anticipated return of the iconic darts quiz show Bullseye to ITV screens has been overshadowed by a wave of viewer complaints, all centred on one unexpected issue: the audience's incessant clapping.
Migraine Inducing Noise
New host Freddie Flintoff took the helm for the show's full series premiere on Sunday, following a successful Christmas trial. However, the action was frequently interrupted by what home viewers described as an overwhelming amount of applause from the studio audience.
Fans quickly took to social media platform X to voice their frustrations, with many claiming the constant noise was distracting and even physically uncomfortable. One user, @kevtheman10, directly questioned the producers, asking, "What is it with the constant applause from the audience? They're just clapping at everything."
The criticism was echoed by @Survivinthe20s, who starkly labelled the sound "migraine inducing" and stated they were forced to change channels, adding, "I can't deal with all this over volume clapping, i'm gonna turn over, its doing my head in."
Social Media Backlash
The complaint became a unifying theme across the platform. User @d_mateer joked that "The audience are in the lead with 1200 claps," while @Anthony08876880 urged ITV to "get the hint we don’t need clapping before and after every single question."
The sentiment was perfectly summarised by @OliReading, who proposed a simple solution for modern television: "#Bullseye TV needs a clap filter!" This wave of feedback flooded the show's official social media account, creating a significant point of discussion around the reboot.
Success Amidst the Criticism
Despite the audible grievances, the Bullseye revival proved to be a substantial ratings success for ITV. The Christmas special, which aired prior to the full series, was revealed to be the channel's most-watched programme of its week.
Over 3.3 million viewers tuned in to see Freddie Flintoff step into the role once held by the late, beloved host Jim Bowen. The show's decision to stick faithfully to the original format, which aired from 1982 to 1995, was praised by both critics and fans.
One viewer commented on X, "This already deserves a new series commissioned. They haven't messed with the original format whatsoever and it shows." Another enthused, "Loved the Bullseye reboot. Freddie Flintoff is a great presenter and as handsome as ever."
The holiday special's performance even saw it top the ratings for its weekend, outperforming established ITV giants like The Chase and The 1% Club. The episode also gained attention for a standout performance from teenage darts prodigy Luke Littler, with some fans dubbing it "The Luke Littler Show" after he scored a perfect 180 with his first three throws.
