The former snooker player and commentator John Virgo has died at the age of 79.
He enjoyed an 18-year professional career, winning the 1979 UK Championship among four non-ranking titles.
Alongside that, he is best known for his post-playing career, co-presenting the snooker TV programme Big Break from 1991 to 2002.
Following his retirement in 1994, Virgo took up a full-time commentary position with the BBC.
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. ❤️ pic.twitter.com/uaxCQGzQpv— WST (@WeAreWST) February 4, 2026
Tributes paid to 'legendary' John Virgo
Plenty of people and organisations took to social media to pay tribute to Virgo.
World Snooker Tour wrote in a post on X: "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.
BBC Sport posted: "Some sad news to bring you. Snooker legend and BBC commentator John Virgo has died aged 79. Our thoughts are with his family, friends and colleagues."
Former GB swimmer Chris Pattinson shared: "RIP John Virgo. I remember seeing John play 9 amateur snooker players at a Snooker club in Spennymoor when I was 16.
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"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."
PA News reporter Harry Taylor wrote: "Gutted to read the news about John Virgo.
"A big part of my childhood on Big Break, snooker royalty and was lovely when I met him a decade ago. Snooker commentaries won't be the same. Say goodnight, JV..."
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