Snooker Legend John Virgo Dies Leaving Sport In Mourning

Snooker has lost one of its most beloved voices and personalities as John Virgo, the legendary player turned broadcaster, died on February 4, 2026, at the age of 79 in Spain. Just weeks before his passing, Virgo was actively involved in snooker’s biggest stages, lending his unmistakable commentary to the Masters final, a fitting curtain call to a career that spanned more than five decades and touched generations of fans.

Born in Salford in 1946, Virgo’s journey in snooker began on the green baize but quickly transcended the boundaries of the sport. His 18-year professional career was highlighted by his triumphant victory at the 1979 UK Championship, where he edged out Terry Griffiths in a nail-biting 14-13 final. That match, as dramatic behind the scenes as on the table, saw Virgo nearly miss his crowning moment after arriving late for the final session—a mishap that cost him two frames but ultimately didn’t deny him his only major title. "It was the only major I won and it was the best and worst day of my life," Virgo once told the Mirror in 2024, reflecting on the bittersweet nature of that day, which was not even televised due to a BBC strike.

Virgo’s competitive achievements also included victories at the 1980 Bombay International, 1980 Pontins Professional, and the 1984 Professional Snooker League. He reached the semi-finals of the World Championship in 1979, cementing his place among the sport’s elite during snooker’s golden era. Yet, despite his prowess on the table, it was his larger-than-life character and warmth that made him a household name.

Retiring from professional play in 1994, Virgo wasted no time transitioning to a new chapter as a broadcaster and entertainer. Already renowned for his uncanny impressions of fellow players and his trademark humor, he became a fixture on the BBC’s snooker coverage. His commentary, punctuated by the iconic catchphrase "Where’s the cue ball going?", became part of the fabric of the sport. For many, Virgo’s voice was as integral to the snooker experience as the clack of the balls themselves. As one fan wrote on social media, "Sad news this morning re the passing of John Virgo. Really did become the voice of snooker. A great. Will miss listening to him."

From 1991 to 2002, Virgo co-hosted the wildly popular BBC game show Big Break alongside comedian Jim Davidson. The show, which paired snooker professionals with everyday contestants, brought the sport into living rooms across the UK and showcased Virgo’s wit, charm, and array of trick shots. Davidson paid tribute to his friend on Instagram, saying, "Heartbroken to hear that my great mate John Virgo has passed away at 79. What a character, what a talent. From our time together on Big Break, to the snooker commentary chair, you brought so much joy to so many. Rest easy, John. You will be missed."

Virgo remained a mainstay of snooker broadcasting up until his final days, calling Kyren Wilson’s Masters win over John Higgins in January 2026. His dedication to the sport was unwavering, and his presence was so cherished that when the BBC announced plans to remove him and fellow commentator Dennis Taylor from their team in 2022, public outcry led to a reversal of the decision. As Neil Robertson, the 2010 World Champion, remarked, "So sad to hear about the news of John Virgo’s passing. He was a great character and an amazing pundit/commentator. I had the pleasure of sharing the booth with him during the world championships a couple of years ago in which I got a huge appreciation for how good he was."

The news of Virgo’s passing sent ripples through the snooker community and beyond. Seven-time world champion Ronnie O’Sullivan shared, "Finished my match to get the news that JV has passed away. Love to Rosie, Brooke and Gary. Such a great mate who I loved spending time with, absolutely gutted." Reanne Evans, a 12-time women’s world champion, echoed the sentiment: "Oh JV. You will be missed. Thinking of Rosie and your family at this sad time. This is a tough one to take. You will always be the best ever to me. God bless you. What a guy."

Other tributes poured in from across the sporting world. Former heavyweight champion Frank Bruno recalled Virgo’s sense of humor and generosity, writing, "RIP John Virgo we met loads of times great sense of humour he tried teaching me some trick shots and really was laughing when the balls kept leaving the table. One thing about him everyone said he was a really nice man sad loss." Mark Allen, Mark Selby, Shaun Murphy, and broadcaster Phil Seymour all shared their condolences, with Selby stating, "So so sad to hear the news of the passing of John Virgo!!! Such a great guy and a huge character!! He Will be greatly missed! RIP JV."

Fans and colleagues alike remembered Virgo not just for his achievements, but for his warmth, loyalty, and the joy he brought to the sport. Jason Francis, chairman of World Seniors Snooker, shared, "JV was doing what he loved to do right up until the end, entertaining everyone. Such an important person in my life but in our sport in general. An amazingly loyal friend to me, and someone you felt was sat with you at the match when he was commentating on TV. Hard to take this one... one great person who touched so many lives and loved the game. We will never forget you bud. RIP JV."

Virgo’s impact extended beyond the snooker table and the commentary booth. His impressions, his laughter, and his approachable nature made him a favorite at exhibitions and on the exhibition circuit, where he delighted audiences with his trick shots and stories. Former GB swimmer Chris Pattinson recalled, "RIP John Virgo. I remember seeing John play 9 amateur snooker players at a Snooker club in Spennymoor when I was 16. He beat them all easily then he did his impressions of other Snooker Stars. I will miss his commentary on TV as nobody did it better than John."

In recognition of his contributions to the sport, Virgo was inducted into the World Snooker Tour hall of fame—a testament to his dual legacy as both champion and ambassador. The World Snooker Tour summed up the collective feeling in its official statement: "Everyone at World Snooker Tour is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of legendary snooker player and broadcaster John Virgo, aged 79. Our thoughts are with his family and loved ones. Rest in peace, JV."

John Virgo is survived by his wife Rosie, children Gary and Brooke-Leah, and grandchildren. His passing marks the end of an era for snooker, but his voice, his humor, and his love for the game will echo in halls and living rooms for years to come. As the tributes continue to pour in, one thing is clear: the cue ball may have finally stopped rolling, but John Virgo’s legacy is set to remain at the heart of snooker forever.