John Virgo and his wife moved out of the UK for a very good reason six years before his death. It was confirmed on Wednesday that the snooker legend and much-loved commentator had died at the age of 79. Tributes have been flooding in on social media, with Virgo having left a legacy as one of the sport’s most popular figures.
He forged a successful commentary career with the BBC after retiring from snooker in 1994. During his playing days, he won four professional titles including the UK Championship, Bombay International and Professional Snooker League. He also reached the semi-finals of the World Championship and British Open and was runner-up at the Champion of Champions in 1980.
Virgo was born in Salford and spent the vast majority of his life in the UK, although his declining health prompted him to move to Spain with his wife in 2020.
They relocated to the Costa del Sol, hoping the warmer weather would help relieve Virgo’s constant pain from a long-term neck injury.
They said: “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.”
The news of Virgo’s death was initially announced by Jason Francis, chairman of World Seniors Snooker, who shared an emotional message via his Snooker Legends account on X (formerly Twitter).
He wrote: “Heartbreaking to share the news that we’ve lost the great ‘JV’ John Virgo this morning, he passed away in Spain. Rosie and Brooke-Leah would like everyone to know. Our hearts go out to them both, Gary and the grandchildren.
“JV was doing what he loved to do right up until the end, entertaining everyone. Such an important person in my life but in our sport in general.
“An amazingly loyal friend to me, and someone you felt was sat with you at the match when he was commentating on TV.
“Hard to take this one… one great person who touched so many lives and loved the game. We will never forget you bud. RIP JV.”
In a statement, the World Snooker Tour added: “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.”