Snooker legend John Virgo dies aged 79 as tributes pour in for iconic star:
John Virgo, one of snooker's most iconic figures on the table and in the commentary ...
metro.co.uk/2026/02/04/snooker-legend-john-virgo-dies-aged-79-tributes-pour-iconic-star-26702092/
Photo: metro.co.uk · view article
Snooker Icon John Virgo Passes Away at 79John Virgo, 1979 UK Champion and beloved BBC commentator, died in Spain, leaving a lasting legacy in the snooker world.
Key Facts5 days ago · Reading time: ~45 sec.
Summary created with AI assistance · Source: metro.co.uk
Summary created with AI assistance · Source: metro.co.uk
- John Virgo was a top snooker player in the late 1970s and 1980s, winning the 1979 UK Championship and competing annually at the Crucible from 1979 to 1991.
- He gained widespread fame after retiring by co-hosting the popular TV show Big Break and becoming a respected commentator.
- Virgo continued commentating for the BBC until shortly before his death, including coverage of the Masters in January 2026.
- Tributes from fellow players and broadcasters praised him as a loyal friend, brilliant entertainer, and a major influence on the sport.
Sad news. Always great company. Enjoyed chatting about cricket! Great character. Will be sadly missed by a lot of people. #RIPJV— Former England cricketer and big snooker fan Jack Russell on the passing of John Virgo.
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John Virgo dies aged 79: John Virgo, who co-presented TV show Big Break and was a popular BBC commentator for decades, has died.
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John Virgo dies aged 79: John Virgo, who co-presented TV show Big Break and commentated on the BBC for 47 years, has died.
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