Snooker great John Virgo has died at the age of 79, World Snooker Tour has announced.
Virgo, who won the UK Championship in 1979, enjoyed a long and storied career but was perhaps best known for his work as a broadcaster.
He was an established part of the BBC's snooker coverage as a commentator, famous for his catchphrase of 'where's the cue ball going?'.
Virgo was also well known for his role on the 1990s snooker show 'Big Break' and was a regular on the exhibition circuit with his vast array of trick shots.
Truly awful news. Thoughts with all Johns family and friends. One of the nicest men you could ever wish to meet pic.twitter.com/Xxw68Msn5l
— Mark Allen (@pistol147) February 4, 2026
"Everyone at World Snooker Tour is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of legendary snooker player and broadcaster John Virgo, aged 79," a WST statement read.
"Our thoughts are with his family and loved ones. Rest in peace, JV."
A moment of silence was observed before the second session of matches at the World Grand Prix in Hong Kong involving all eight players, including Mark Allen and Shaun Murphy.
Seven-time world champion Ronnie O'Sullivan said Virgo was a friend that he loved spending time with, writing on X: "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."
Former world champion 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."
Jimmy White played Virgo 11 times during their professional careers, including in the 1989 World Championship when White edged it 13-12.
He wrote a simple message on Instagram accompanied with a picture of the two which said: "Goodnight JV".
