Legendary snooker commentator John Virgo has died at 79, leaving a legacy that won’t soon be forgotten. Famous for the phrase “where’s the cue ball going,” Virgo’s voice became a staple of British snooker. His passing marks the end of an era, but his career wasn’t without its dramatic moments.
In 2022, rumours swept through the snooker community suggesting John Virgo and his longtime partner in commentary, Dennis Taylor, were facing the axe from the BBC. Fans were outraged, and public backlash grew so intense that it caused the BBC to backtrack on their decision. Virgo’s calm and accepting approach to the news spoke volumes of his character. He reflected on how times have changed since he would have fought tooth and nail to keep his job, admitting, “I understand nothing lasts forever.”
Despite the uncertainty, he embraced the situation with a dignity that’s rare today. His reaction was beautifully humble. As rumours swirled, he shared a grounded working-class perspective: “There’s b***** all I can do about it, so why get bothered?”
The snooker world collectively breathed a sigh of relief when it was announced he’d remain in his beloved seat. Virgo himself shared the excellent news during a BBC podcast, revealing that changes weren’t as imminent as feared. This flip-flop meant he could continue attending tournaments, meeting old friends, and of course, the Thursday morning golf sessions he cherished so much.
Unfortunately, his last appearance for the BBC came at the Masters tournament. Since his passing, tributes have poured in from the snooker community, with players like Shaun Murphy and Neil Robertson recognising his immense contribution.
The world will miss that iconic voice, but John Virgo’s grace under pressure and his enduring legacy in the world of snooker commentary will be remembered for a long time to come. Rest in peace, John. ❤️