Snooker legend John Virgo’s passing was marked by the revelation of his cause of death. The sudden demise of the 79-year-old was met with an outpouring of tributes from the snooker community and beyond.
Virgo, a prominent figure in snooker during the 1970s and 1980s, achieved a career milestone by winning the 1979 UK Championship and reaching the semi-finals of the World Championship in the same year.
His fame soared in the 1990s as he co-hosted Big Break alongside comedian Jim Davidson, becoming a familiar face on television screens across the nation.
Known as the voice of snooker, Virgo had a successful commentary career on the BBC, where his signature catchphrase “where’s the cue ball going?” became synonymous with his broadcasting style. He tragically succumbed to a ruptured aorta, as confirmed by a close source to the family.
Residing in Spain with his wife Rosie, Virgo’s spouse expressed her heartbreak shortly after his passing, highlighting their almost 16-year marriage and describing him as the love of her life and best friend.
Close friend James Malyon, who shared a passion for golf with Virgo, expressed shock over the sudden loss, praising Virgo’s charisma and warm personality.
Fellow snooker champion Ronnie O’Sullivan and BBC commentator Stephen Hendry also paid emotional tributes to Virgo, acknowledging his unparalleled talent and vibrant presence in the snooker world.
Jim Davidson, Virgo’s Big Break co-host, fondly remembered his friend as a remarkable character and talent, reminiscing about their time together on and off the snooker table.
In 2020, Virgo and Rosie relocated to Spain in pursuit of relief for Virgo’s long-standing neck injury. Survived by his children Gary and Brook-Leah from previous marriages, Virgo leaves behind a legacy cherished by many in the snooker community.