GMB host Adil Ray facing major backlash for controversial Luke Littler comment on live TV

Viewers were left shocked by comments made about Luke Littler during a live TV broadcast on Thursday morning.

Littler, 17, is arguably the biggest name in darts at the moment and is set to take on Stephen Bunting, 39, later this evening in the PDC World Darts Championship semi-final as he looks to book a place in Friday’s final against Michael van Gerwen or Chris Dobey.

A victory would see Littler appear in his second World Championship in two years, having previously reached the last two of the 2023/24 edition of the competition before losing in the final to Luke Humphries, who lost to Peter Wright in the 2024/25 edition of the tournament.

The Warrington-born darts sensation will no doubt impress fans this evening; however, viewers of ITV’s popular morning show ‘Good Morning Britain’ were left unimpressed by a comment a host made about the teenager.

Presenter Adil Ray, 50, has sparked outrage when referencing Littler’s lifestyle choices.

"I have to say, and this might not be very popular, I'm a little bit worried about Luke [Littler],” said Ray on Thursday morning.

“He's 17, and he's turning into the look of a darts player."

After co-host Sean Fletcher chuckled awkwardly, Ray continued to discuss the darts star.

Luke Littler is in action on Thursday evening (Credit:Getty)

“He is though,” he added.

“If I were his mum and dad, I mean, he's sort of - look at him. He's admitted he has pizzas before a match and sits there playing computer games. I just think I'm a bit worried."

Kate Garraway, also presenting, then questioned her colleague’s comments.

“I know, but he's going to get more successful, and I just worry," Ray continued.

But Adil did not stop there. Then, Garraway, 57, jokingly suggested her co-host deliver a carrot to the teenager.

"Just before the final, I've brought a nice little salad for you from Pret,” quipped Ray.

He then finished by praising the “brilliant” Littler voicing how he thinks “he’s great”.

But fans on social media were quick to give their thoughts on the presenter’s unsavoury comments.

One said: "Adil Ray just casually fat shaming a 17-year-old kid on Good Morning Britain."

A second added: "Disgusted watching Adil Ray getting away with insulting Luke Littler."

While a third explained: "Adil Ray frantically trying to save it, whilst Kate Garraway sat in silence."

SPORTbible has reached out to ITV's GMB for comment.