Snooker Mourns John Virgo As Beloved Icon Dies At 79

The world of snooker is mourning the loss of one of its most cherished icons, John Virgo, who has died at the age of 79. The news, announced by the World Snooker Tour on Wednesday, February 4, 2026, has sent ripples of sadness throughout the sporting community and beyond. Virgo’s influence spanned decades, from his days as a formidable competitor on the baize to his later years as a beloved commentator and television personality. His passing in Spain, where he had lived in recent years, marks the end of an era for snooker fans everywhere.

Born in Salford, England, in 1946, John Virgo rose steadily through the ranks to become one of the sport’s leading figures during the 1970s and 1980s. His crowning achievement as a player came in 1979 when he captured the prestigious UK Championship, defeating the reigning world champion Terry Griffiths in a memorable final. That same year, he reached the semi-finals of the World Championship, solidifying his reputation as a force to be reckoned with on the international stage. Over the course of his career, Virgo also claimed titles at the 1980 Bombay International, the 1980 Pontins Professional, and the 1984 Professional Snooker League. He was a British Open and World Championship semi-finalist and twice a runner-up at major events, including the 1980 Champion of Champions and the 1984 Australian Masters.

Virgo’s professional playing career saw him reach as high as No. 10 in the world rankings, and his competitive spirit was matched by a flair for the dramatic. He was renowned for his trick shots and his ability to entertain crowds, both in competition and on the exhibition circuit. But perhaps his most significant contribution to snooker came after he hung up his cue in 1994. Swapping the pressures of elite competition for the bright lights of television, Virgo became a household name as the co-presenter of the hit BBC game show Big Break alongside comedian Jim Davidson. The show, which ran from 1991 to 2002, brought snooker to a whole new audience and showcased Virgo’s wit, charm, and encyclopedic knowledge of the game. Millions tuned in to watch his demonstrations of trick shots and his good-natured banter with contestants and celebrities alike.

As a commentator, Virgo’s voice became synonymous with snooker. His catchphrase, “Where’s the cue ball going?” uttered whenever a shot threatened to end in disaster, became iconic among fans. His ability to convey the tension and excitement of a match was unmatched, and he was widely respected by colleagues and players for his insight and humor. Over the years, he became a regular fixture on the BBC’s snooker coverage, offering analysis and commentary at the sport’s biggest events, including the World Championship and, most recently, the Masters in January 2026.

Tributes have poured in from across the snooker world and beyond. Jason Francis, chairman of World Seniors Snooker and head of the Snooker Legends promotions company, announced Virgo’s passing, sharing, “Heartbreaking to share the news that we’ve lost the great ‘JV’ John Virgo this morning. He passed away in Spain. Rosie and Brooke-Leah would like everyone to know. Our hearts go out to them both, Gary and the grandchildren. JV was doing what he loved to do right up until the end, entertaining everyone.” Francis added, “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.”

Seven-time world champion Ronnie O’Sullivan was among the first players to express his sorrow, posting on X after a match at the World Grand Prix: “Finished my match to get the news that JV has passed away. Love to Rosie, Brooke and Gary. Such a great mate, whom I loved spending time with, absolutely gutted.” The outpouring of grief continued with heartfelt tributes from Mark Selby, who wrote, “Such a great guy and a huge character!! He will be greatly missed! RIP JV,” and Mark Allen, who noted, “Truly awful news. Thoughts with all of John’s family and friends. One of the nicest men you could ever wish to meet.” Neil Robertson recalled sharing the commentary booth with Virgo, stating, “He was a great character and an amazing pundit/commentator. I had the pleasure of sharing a booth with him during the World Championship a couple of years ago, which gave me a huge appreciation for how good he was.”

Stephen Hendry, who worked with Virgo in the commentary box as recently as the Masters, said, “It was only a couple of weeks ago that I was with JV in the commentary box at the Masters; he was the greatest to work with. Nobody recreated the excitement of a match like him. ‘Where’s the cueball going?’ Very sad news, absolutely gutted. RIP JV.” Fellow commentator Shaun Murphy remembered, “I first met John in 1994, filming Junior Big Break. He then went on to become a friend and colleague. I learned so much from him whilst sharing a commentary box. The voice of snooker will be sadly missed. Rest In Peace, John Virgo.”

Virgo’s influence extended beyond the snooker table and the commentary booth. He was known for his good-natured impersonations of fellow players, including the twitchy Alex Higgins and the stoic Ray Reardon, often delighting fans when sessions ended early. His sense of humor and approachable demeanor made him a favorite with audiences of all ages. Former world heavyweight boxing champion Frank Bruno shared his own memory, writing, “RIP John Virgo ... great sense of humor he tried teaching me some trick shots and really was laughing when the balls kept leaving the table.”

In addition to his television and commentary work, Virgo authored the book Amazing Snooker Trick Shots in 2012 and launched an app in 2014, further cementing his legacy as an ambassador for the sport. In 2023, he was inducted as the 35th member of the World Snooker Tour Hall of Fame, a fitting recognition for a lifetime of contributions to snooker.

Virgo is survived by his wife, Rosie Ries, whom he married in 2009, and his two children, Gary and Brook-Leah, from his second marriage. The family had relocated to Spain in 2020, seeking a warmer climate to help ease the pain from Virgo’s long-term neck injury. His passing leaves a void in the world of snooker, but his legacy as a champion, entertainer, and friend will endure for generations to come.

As the snooker community gathers to remember John Virgo, the memories of his wit, talent, and infectious love for the game remain vivid. Whether on the table, in the commentary booth, or on television screens across the UK, Virgo’s presence was always felt. Rest in peace, JV – the sport will never forget you.