Virgo’s death was announced on Wednesday by the World Snooker Tour and tributes poured in for one of the sport’s greats. Former world champion John Parrott worked alongside Virgo in the BBC commentary box and said he “transcended the sport” and “loved a joke”. He told BBC Sport: “John was a tremendous competitor and a very good break-builder, brilliant among the pink and black. Sir Stephen Fry became a good friend of John Virgo (John Walton/PA)“Then he transcended the sport and went into the commentary box. Virgo retired in 1994 and was later inducted into the World Snooker Tour hall of fame for his success on the baize and his work as a broadcaster.

Source: Express February 04, 2026 17:45 UTC