The world of snooker and television is mourning the loss of John Virgo, the legendary BBC commentator and former professional player, who has passed away at the age of 79. Tributes have flooded in from across the sporting and broadcasting communities, honouring the man affectionately known as 'The Voice of Snooker'.
A Storied Career in Snooker
Born in Salford, John Virgo enjoyed a highly successful 18-year career as a professional snooker player, securing four major titles. His victories included the prestigious 1979 UK Championship, the 1980 Bombay International, and the 1984 Professional Snooker League. Following his retirement from competitive play, he seamlessly transitioned into commentary, becoming a beloved and iconic figure on the BBC's snooker coverage for decades.
The Big Break Phenomenon
Beyond his achievements at the table and in the commentary box, Virgo found widespread fame as the co-host of the popular snooker-based television programme, Big Break, which aired throughout the 1990s. The show ran for over a decade and featured a unique presenting partnership between Virgo and comedian Jim Davidson.
Davidson served as the main host, while Virgo appeared in the role of a referee. Contestants teamed up with professional snooker players to participate in various challenges, competing for prizes. At its peak, the programme attracted nearly 14 million viewers, demonstrating its enormous popularity with the British public.
Initial Doubts and Lasting Success
In a candid interview with the Daily Express last year, Virgo revealed he had significant reservations about the show's potential when first approached. "All of a sudden, I get this phone call, 'Would you be interested in doing this TV show, a quiz show with snooker, with this comedian, Jim Davidson,'" he recalled. "I'd met him once a few years previously, but I didn't really know him. It was funny because we got there and he didn't know much about snooker."
Virgo admitted that after filming the initial episodes, he was sceptical. "In all honesty, after doing the first couple of shows, I was thinking, 'I don't see how this works'. Anyway, we did eight [episodes]. We took over the slot from A Question of Sport on a Tuesday night and the viewing figures were better! That shows you the popularity of snooker at the time."
His doubts were quickly proven wrong. The show was commissioned for a further 18 episodes and ultimately ran for ten years, becoming a remarkable television success story.
An Unlikely But Enduring Friendship
The collaboration on Big Break sparked an unexpected and lasting friendship between the two men, despite their differing backgrounds and personalities. Virgo reflected on this unique bond, stating: "It's a funny thing about life. He's your crafty Conservative comedian and I'm your dour northern socialist. How do you come up with that? But obviously the chemistry worked."
He praised Davidson's professionalism and generosity as a colleague. "Although Jim didn't know much about snooker, what a funny man and a very generous man to work with. We really got on well. Besides, when you're in those positions, the most important thing is that the show works."
Their friendship extended well beyond the final episode of Big Break in 2002. The duo continued to work together, collaborating on pantomime productions for a further eight years, cementing their personal and professional relationship.
A Final Tribute from a Great Mate
Following the confirmation of Virgo's passing on Wednesday morning, Jim Davidson paid a heartfelt tribute to his former co-star and friend. Posting on Instagram alongside a photograph of the pair, Davidson wrote: "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."
The death of John Virgo marks the end of an era for snooker broadcasting. His legacy encompasses not only his skill as a player and his iconic commentary but also the joy he brought to millions through his television work, most notably in partnership with Jim Davidson on one of the BBC's most beloved sports entertainment shows.
