Bullseye hits merchandising deal

The long running ITV darts game show Bullseye is to capitalise on its enduring appeal with television audiences by introducing a range of new merchandise following a deal with Bulldog.

An original Bully from Bullseye in 2011

The game show which launched in 1981 and ran until the mid-1990s continues to draw viewers in regular repeats on quiz channel Challenge. The show also saw a remake in 2006 and 2007 when the network commissioned new episodes of the series which mixes questions with the game of darts.

At its peak, on ITV, 13 million were regularly tuning into the programme and its retro appeal has seen nearly 40,000 fans follow the show on Facebook. The mainstay host was comedian Jim Bowen and the shows iconic mascot is Bully the bull (pictured) who became a sought after prize in his ‘bendy foam’ form.

Bullseye’s format owners have struck a deal with Bulldog, who work with a number of the world’s leading brand owners to develop merchandise programmes, to devise and promote a new range of merchandising which includes clothing and gaming. Bulldog currently also promote former ITV ‘personality’ Monkey, who went from ITV Digital adverts to PG Tips teabags.

“There are few game shows that can rival Bullseye in the affections of the British public and as a brand it offers huge potential for licensing,” Rob Corney, Bulldog MD told licensing.biz. “We have already been in talks with a number of partners and expect to be making deal announcements very soon.”

Jim Bowen and Caravan on Central's Bullseye

Bullseye, the ATV episodes from 1981, can be seen Thursday nights from 10pm on Challenge.