John Parrott, the former world snooker champion and long-serving BBC pundit, has revealed that family commitments were the driving force behind his decision to leave the iconic quiz show A Question of Sport in 2002. The Liverpudlian, who captained a team on the programme from 1996, cited the strain of frequent travel as a key factor.
In an interview with The Telegraph at the time, Parrott explained that the demands of filming were affecting his home life. “Often, I'd be leaving the house at 10 o'clock in the morning to film three shows and not get back until three or four the next day,” he said. “I loved the show, but I'd had a good stint and, as much as I enjoy Ally's company, I'd rather be at home with my boy, my girl and my wife.”
Parrott’s family includes his wife Karen, who has remained out of the public eye, and their two children, Josh (born 1994) and Ellie (born 1997). The 61-year-old described mornings with his family as “paradise”, adding: “From the day the children were born, my priorities changed.”
Beyond his television work, Parrott has built a significant fortune estimated at £9.1 million as of March 2025, according to reports. His snooker career yielded nine ranking titles, including the 1991 World Championship, and prize money of £3.2 million, though his broadcasting roles have contributed substantially to his wealth.
Parrott remains a key part of the BBC’s snooker coverage, having been confirmed for the 2026 World Snooker Championship. He has also publicly defended fellow pundits John Virgo and Dennis Taylor amid speculation that the BBC might end their roles. “They’re the voices of snooker,” Parrott said, praising their knowledge and storytelling. Virgo, who died in February 2025, had previously indicated that the decision to step aside might not have been his own.
