The story of former England international Andros Townsend and his partner, Hazel O'Sullivan, is a unique crossover between the worlds of top-flight football, professional darts, and reality TV.
A Chance Meeting at the Darts Townsend, who earned 13 caps for the Three Lions, found his perfect match in 2013 while he was still rising through the ranks at Tottenham Hotspur. He met O'Sullivan at a darts tournament in London, where the Irish model was working as a professional walk-on girl. At the time, she was a staple of the PDC circuit, accompanying the world's best players to the stage at major events like the World Championship.
Hazel O'Sullivan got her football star beau hooked on Big Brother
From the Oche to the Big Brother House O'Sullivan's profile soared when she entered the Celebrity Big Brother house, lasting an impressive 58 days. Her time on the show had an unexpected side effect: it turned Townsend into a reality TV obsessive.
Reflecting on his fandom in 2015, O'Sullivan shared: "Andros is a massive Big Brother fan. He actually mentioned that if he weren't a footballer, he'd love to give the celebrity version a go. He's the one who makes me watch every season now!"
Former darts walk-on girl Hazel O'Sullivan
The End of an Era for Walk-on Girls O'Sullivan continued her career in darts until 2018, when the sport's governing bodies officially scrapped the use of walk-on girls. The decision sparked a massive cultural debate. While critics viewed the tradition as outdated, O'Sullivan defended the profession, arguing that the move was "anti-woman" as it removed a viable and well-paid career path for many female models under the guise of equality.
A New Chapter and a Global Career Despite the professional shift, 2018 marked a joyful milestone for the couple as they welcomed their daughter, Aria Valentina Townsend. The pair frequently share glimpses of their family life, with O'Sullivan describing the early weeks of motherhood as the "most magical" of their lives.
Hazel O'Sullivan strips down to her lingerie in this sexy shoot
Now 34, Townsend has transitioned into the twilight of his playing days with a nomadic footballing journey. After notable spells at Newcastle, Crystal Palace, Everton, and Luton Town, he recently ventured to Turkey with Antalyaspor before signing for Kanchanaburi Power in Thailand's top division.
Townsend leaves behind a respectable legacy in English football, highlighted by three international goals—most famously his blistering Man of the Match debut against Montenegro in 2013 and a memorable equalizer against Italy in 2015.
