English · Edmonton, England · Born 16 January 1945English professional darts player known for his flamboyant showmanship and theatrical walk-on entrances that helped popularize televised darts.
Born in Edmonton, London on 16 January 1945, Robert Charles George became one of darts' most recognizable figures through a combination of genuine talent and unprecedented showmanship. Before achieving fame on the oche, he worked as a flooring contractor, developing the physical strength that would later contribute to his distinctive throwing style and stage presence. George's professional darts career flourished during the late 1970s and 1980s, coinciding with the sport's television boom. He consistently ranked among the world's elite players, earning his place through tournament victories and sustained high-level performance. His peak years saw him compete regularly in major BDO events, where his combination of skill and entertainment value made him a crowd favorite and television draw. The defining achievements of George's career were his three appearances in BDO World Championship finals in 1979, 1980, and 1986, though he was unable to secure the title on any occasion. This record established him as one of darts' most prominent "nearly-men," alongside his consistent presence in major tournament later stages. His theatrical entrance routine, featuring rhinestone-studded shirts and a lighted candelabra carried to the oche, became legendary within the sport. George's significance extends far beyond his playing record. He pioneered the concept of theatrical presentation in professional darts, transforming what had been a straightforward pub game into entertainment spectacle. His flamboyant entrance ceremonies established traditions that became fundamental to modern darts presentation, influencing generations of subsequent players who adopted similarly elaborate routines. While his showmanship sometimes overshadowed discussion of his playing ability, his three World Championship finals demonstrate genuine elite-level skill. George's dual legacy as both accomplished competitor and entertainment innovator helped establish darts as a television sport, making him one of the most influential figures in the game's professional development.
Creating the theatrical darts walk-on tradition with his flamboyant entrances
George's candelabra walk-on is credited with establishing the theatrical presentation style that became a cornerstone of professional darts — his influence on the sport's entertainment value is enormous.
Did You Know?How They Played
Flamboyant showman known more for entertainment value than technical precision
Lasting Impact
Transformed darts from a pub game into entertainment spectacle through his showmanship and theatrical presentations
Career Honours
- BDO World Championship finalist 3x
- World Masters finalist
- Established the theatrical darts walk-on tradition
- News of the World Individual Darts Championship winner