Who Is Eric Bristow? Age, Biography and Wiki
Eric Bristow was born on April 25, 1957, and tragically passed away on April 5, 2018. He was a prominent figure in the world of darts and is remembered as one of the sport's greatest players. Even in 2025, his legacy endures, influencing new generations of darts players and fans alike. Known as "The Crafty Cockney," Bristow brought personality and flair to the sport, becoming a household name in the UK and around the globe.
| Occupation | Darts Player |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | April 25, 1957 |
| Age | 60 Years |
| Birth Place | Hackney, London, England |
| Horoscope | Taurus |
| Country | England |
| Date of death | 5 April, 2018 |
| Died Place | N/A |
Popularity
Eric Bristow's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
Eric Bristow stood at approximately 5 feet 9 inches (175 cm) tall. He maintained a competitive physique throughout his career, with his weight fluctuating around 180 pounds (82 kg). His measurements contributed to his formidable presence at the darts board, enabling him to take aim and throw with precision.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
Eric Bristow was known to keep much of his personal life private. He had a significant long-term partner, with whom he enjoyed a committed relationship for several years. As of 2025, details about his family life have become more obscured, but he is remembered fondly by fans and family alike for his charming personality and competitive spirit. He did not have a wife or children, focusing primarily on his darts career and public persona.
From 1978 to 1987, Bristow was in a relationship with former darts player Maureen Flowers. In 1989, he married Jane Higginbotham (born 1962). They had two children, a daughter and a son. They divorced in 2005 after 16 years of marriage, and he was later in a relationship with Rebecca Gadd until his death.
Net Worth and Salary
At the time of his death, Eric Bristow had an estimated net worth of around $1 million to $2 million. This wealth was amassed through his successful darts career, sponsorship deals, and appearances on television. His earnings reflected not only his skill in the game but also his role as a media personality, which has continued to license his image and legacy even years later.
Career, Business and Investments
Bristow's career spanned several decades, during which he won five World Championships and numerous titles, establishing himself as a front-runner in the Professional Darts Corporation (PDC). Beyond darts, he ventured into the world of business, engaging in various promotions and hosting events that kept the sport vibrant. Even after his passing, various tournaments continue to honor his legacy, and his influence remains prevalent in the ongoing evolution of professional darts.
Eric John Bristow (25 April 1957 – 5 April 2018), nicknamed "the Crafty Cockney", was an English professional darts player and one of the most recognisable and successful players of the 1980s. He was ranked World No. 1 by the World Darts Federation a record five times, in 1980, 1981, 1983–1985 and 1989-1990.
Between 1980 and 1991, Bristow featured in ten BDO World Darts Championship finals, winning the title five times, in 1980, 1981, 1984, 1985 and 1986. He was also a five-time World Masters Champion, a four-time World Cup singles champion and twice winner of the News of the World Darts Championship.
He won 22 WDF and BDO Major titles, 65 individual career titles and 15 titles in team events, a total of 80 overall. He hosted the first two episodes of the darts-themed ITV game show Bullseye and regularly featured on the show.
Social Network
Eric Bristow was a notable figure on social media, where he often engaged with fans and shared insights into his life and career. Though his official accounts are managed by family and fans, they maintain a presence that honors his spirit. Platforms like Twitter and Instagram serve as a venue for both remembrance and celebration of his immense contribution to the sport of darts, ensuring that new fans can connect with his legacy.
On 29 November 2016, Bristow was sacked by Sky Sports following a series of tweets in which he responded to the United Kingdom football sexual abuse scandal centred around the football coach and convicted child sex offender, Barry Bennell. Bristow suggested the victims should have "sorted out" the perpetrators when they were older.
According to him, "Dart players tough guys footballers wimps". Bristow was condemned by some social media users, including alleged victims of Bennell, for his comments. Bristow apologised for his comments the following day.
In a statement, he compared himself to a "bull in a China shop" and "appreciated my wording was wrong and offended many people".
Education
Details about Eric Bristow's formal education are scarce, but his experiences in the world of darts began at a young age, where personal dedication and practice shaped his skills. His passion for darts and competitive spirit drove him to become one of the sport's icons.
Bristow was educated at Newington Green JM School before leaving for Hackney Downs Grammar School from 1968 to 1971, having passed his eleven-plus exam. He left grammar school at the age of 14.
