John Virgo, the renowned snooker commentator, has passed away at the age of 79. He was widely recognized as a prominent figure in the sport and recently provided commentary for the BBC during the Masters tournament. Virgo, originally from Salford, achieved success as a player, notably winning the UK Championship in 1979. His demise occurred in Spain where he resided.
The World Seniors Snooker chairman, Jason Francis, shared the heartbreaking news on social media, confirming Virgo’s passing. Virgo’s dedication to snooker and his engaging commentary style endeared him to fans and players alike. The BBC and the World Snooker Tour expressed their condolences and recognized Virgo’s significant contributions to the sport.
Fellow snooker personalities, including Ronnie O’Sullivan, Stephen Hendry, Shaun Murphy, and Neil Robertson, paid tribute to Virgo, highlighting his impact on their careers and the sport. Virgo transitioned from playing to commentating, becoming a beloved voice in snooker. His famous catchphrase, “Where’s the cue ball going?” and his colorful waistcoats became iconic symbols of his presence in the snooker world.
In addition to his commentary work, Virgo co-hosted the popular BBC snooker program, Big Break, with Jim Davidson. Reflecting on their time together, Davidson fondly remembered Virgo’s talent and charisma. Virgo’s move to Spain with his wife, Rosie Ries, in 2020 aimed to improve his health following a neck injury. Despite his challenges, Virgo remained dedicated to the sport and his craft until the end.
Virgo’s legacy as a snooker icon and commentator will be remembered by fans and colleagues alike. His unique style and passion for the game left an indelible mark on the snooker community.