SKY SPORTS darts host Emma Paton appeared to choke back tears while announcing the death of fellow presenter Wayne Mardle’s wife.
Paton, 30, announced live on TV this evening that Donna Mardle, who lived in Essex, died after a short illness at the age of 52 on the eve of the 2025 PDC World Darts Championship at Ally Pally.
https://twitter.com/SkySportsDarts/status/1868368241057214862The presenter then appeared to get emotional as she reached out to darts legend Wayne and said he’s in the team’s thoughts and hearts.
Paton said: “Now, if you are a regular viewer of Sky Sports Darts you’ll notice that Wayne isn’t here with us this evening.
“Wayne is the heart and soul of everything we do here at Sky Sports Darts.
“But the heart of his world, his wonderful wife Donna sadly passed away earlier this week after a short illness.
“We’ll be remembering Donna throughout this tournament. Wayne, you’re in our thoughts. You’re in our hearts. We love you very much. And we’ll see you very soon.”
Wayne – who played in five semi-finals at world level on the BDO and PDC circuits – was expected to be at Ally Pally this Christmas and is a long-standing figure on Sky TV’s coverage.
And it is understood the 51-year-old will not be part of the team – where he is an integral voice – for the foreseeable future.
Sky Sports issued the following statement: “Sky Sports would like to send their thoughts, prayers and condolences to our commentator Wayne Mardle, following the passing of his wife Donna earlier this week.”
Nearly seven years ago, Wayne revealed on social media that Donna had come through a battle with cancer.
The PDC also issued a touching message to the darts great before the tournament kicks off.
The statement read: “All our thoughts·and condolences are with Wayne Mardle and his family, after the passing of his wife Donna earlier this week.”
