The Professional Darts Corporation (PDC) has announced the passing of Jamie Harvey, who died peacefully at the age of 70, surrounded by family. His son confirmed the news on Thursday, marking the end of an era for one of darts’ most influential pioneers.
A proud Scot known for his passion and fighting spirit, Harvey was more than just a player—he was a trailblazer. In the early 1990s, he was one of the founding members of the World Darts Council, the organisation that would evolve into today’s PDC. His contributions helped reshape the sport, playing a vital role in the professionalisation of darts as we know it.
A Fixture on the Big Stage
Harvey’s playing career was marked by consistency and grit. He made 13 consecutive appearances at the PDC World Championship, all at the iconic Circus Tavern, with his best run coming in the 1995/96 tournament where he reached the semi-finals.
He also made his mark at the World Matchplay, another cornerstone of the PDC calendar, reaching the semi-finals in 1996 — one of his 12 appearances at the Winter Gardens in Blackpool. Harvey also competed in the World Grand Prix, the UK Open, and the Las Vegas Desert Classic — major events during the formative years of the PDC.
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His crowning achievement came in 2000, when he captured a PDC ranking title at the Antwerp Open, defeating Roland Scholten in the final. The victory epitomised Harvey’s playing style: technical skill, raw determination, and the ability to rise to the occasion.
In 2008, Harvey added a unique footnote to his career when he hit a nine-dart leg against Phil Taylor at the UK Open — a momentous achievement that came in what would be his final televised match. He officially retired from the PDC in 2009.
A Fighter On and Off the Oche
Harvey’s fight didn’t end when he left the professional circuit. After being diagnosed with throat cancer, he underwent surgery to remove the cancerous growth — including a full laryngectomy that took away his voice box. Despite this life-altering procedure, he remained deeply connected to darts.
In 2011, he returned to the oche in the BDO, competing in Scottish-based events. Though his voice was altered, his passion for the game remained undimmed.
“I hope I’m not forgotten just because I’ve been ill and not very loud on social media, but I am still here and I can still play,” he said in a 2021 interview with Oche. “There’s no doubt I’d have to do some serious practice… but it would be nice to know [I had the chance].”
Harvey had expressed a strong desire to compete in the Seniors Championship, believing his past ranking and contributions to the game warranted an opportunity. “I was once fourth in the world, so I think I deserve my chance,” he stated.
Remembering Jamie Harvey
Jamie Harvey will be remembered not only for his competitive achievements but for the spirit he brought to darts — both as a player and a founding figure in its modern era. A fighter in every sense, he leaves behind a legacy that helped shape the sport’s journey from smoke-filled halls to packed arenas around the world.
The PDC and the wider darts community mourn his passing and celebrate the immense contributions he made to the game.
