Former player and broadcaster John Virgo has died at the age of 79, World Snooker has announced.
Virgo’s most notable victory was in the final of the 1979 UK Championship, where he defeated Terry Griffiths.
Other key career wins include the 1980 Bombay International, 1980 Pontins Professional and the 1984 Professional Snooker League.
John Virgo was well known for both his playing career and his role as a broadcaster.
Virgo enjoyed a long and storied playing career that included that UK Championship win but he was perhaps best known for his work as a broadcaster.
He was an established part of the BBC’s snooker coverage as a commentator, famous for his catchphrase of ‘Where’s the cue ball going?’
Virgo became a household name with his role on the 1990s snooker show Big Break and was a regular on the exhibition circuit with his vast array of trick shots.
“Everyone at World Snooker Tour is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of legendary snooker player and broadcaster John Virgo, aged 79,” a WST statement read.
“Our thoughts are with his family and loved ones. Rest in peace, JV.”
Jason Francis, chairman of World Seniors Snooker, announced the “heartbreaking” news of Virgo’s death in Spain in a post on the Snooker Legends account on X.
“JV was doing what he loved to do right up until the end, entertaining everyone,” he said. “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.”
The sport is paying tribute to Virgo.
Virgo spent 18 years as a professional and reached the World Championship semi-finals in 1979, when he also won the UK Championship.
He retired in 1994 and was later inducted into the World Snooker Tour hall of fame for his success on the baize and his work as a broadcaster.
The news of his death led to tributes from those he left an indelible mark on.
Seven-time world champion Ronnie O’Sullivan wrote: “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.”
Four-time world champion Mark Selby posted on X: “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”
Neil Robertson, who won the 2010 World Championship, said: “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.”
