The world of snooker is mourning the loss of one of its biggest personalities and most recognisable voices after confirmation that John Virgo died, aged 79.
While Virgo enjoyed a long and distinguished career and won the UK Championship in 1979, hewill be remembered by many for his work as a broadcaster and commentator.
Between 1991 and 2002, Virgo presented the BBC’s snooker programme Big Break, which at its peak brought in a staggering 13million viewers on a Saturday evening, alongside comedian and actor Jim Davidson.
The hit show provided Virgo with the perfect platform to marry his dry wit and snooker expertise, while also handing the sport’s lesser known names the chance to break new ground and perform in front of a completely different audience.
Ronnie O’Sullivan, arguably snooker’s greatest ever player, would have been anything but a household name back in 1992 when he made his first appearance as a fresh faced 16-year-old.
In a clip that has resurfaced in the wake of Virgo’s passing, O’Sullivan was given a classic Virgo introduction.
‘We’ve introduced a lot of new faces and this young man is 16 years of age,’ bellowed Virgo in his oh so familiar Mancunian accent.
‘He’s the youngest man to ever make a 147 maximum break in a tournament. From Chigwell Essex, Ronnie O’Sullivan.’
‘I tell you one of the best snooker players I’ve ever seen, I’m telling you I’m putting money on you to be a world champion in a couple of years time,’ added Davidson in praise of The Rocket, who would indeed go on to win seven world titles.
Reflecting on the footage of a young Ronnie whizzing round the table potting balls at breakneck speed and winning a cash prize for one lucky contestant, Virgo couldn’t hide his admiration for the now 50-year-old.
He said: ‘Just such a natural, the way he falls into the shot. You could see it straight away.
‘I love sport. Football, tennis, horse racing, anything. But I have never seen anyone with more natural ability than Ronnie O’Sullivan.
‘The fact he can do it with either hand just puts him apart from any sport I’ve ever seen. If there’s a more talented sportsman playing any sport in he world today I’d love to know who it is. His gift is frightening.’
O’Sullivan, currently competing at the World Grand Prix in Hong Kong, was one of the many to current players to pay tribute following Wednesday morning’s sad news.
He said: ‘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.’
Davidson, who shared the Big Break stage with his co-host for 12 years, posted on Instagram: ‘Heartbroken to hear that my great mate John Virgo has passed away at 79. What a character, what a talent. From our time together on Big Break, to the snooker commentary chair, you brought so much joy to so many. Rest easy, John. You will be missed.’
Former world champion Shaun Murphy, who has also featured as a BBC commentator, wrote on Instagram: ‘I first met John in 1994, filming Junior Big Break. He then went on to become a friend and colleague.
‘I learned so much from him whilst sharing a commentary box. The voice of snooker will be sadly missed. Rest In Peace John Virgo.’
Reanne Evans, 12-times women’s world champion, said on X: ‘Oh JV. You will be missed. Thinking of Rosie and your family at this sad time. This is a tough one to take. You will always be the best ever to me. God bless you. What a guy.’
Former heavyweight world champion Frank Bruno told X: ‘RIP John Virgo we met loads of times great sense of humour he tried teaching me some trick shots and really was laughing when the balls kept leaving the table. One thing about him everyone said he was a really nice man sad loss.’