Snooker legend John Virgo, who co-hosted BBC show with Jim Davidson, dies aged 79

Former player and broadcaster John Virgo has died at the age of 79, World Snooker has announced.

He died at his home in Spain, World Seniors Snooker chairman Jason Francis told social media.

In a touching tribute, Mr Francis described the star as "An amazingly loyal friend to me, and someone you felt was sat with you at the match when he was commentating on TV."

He added: "JV was doing what he loved to do right up until the end, entertaining everyone.

"Such an important person in my life but in our sport in general."

Virgo's most notable victory was in the final of the 1979 UK Championship, where he defeated Terry Griffiths.

Other key career wins include the 1980 Bombay International, 1980 Pontins Professional and the 1984 Professional Snooker League.

The iconic wins even earned him a place in the World Snooker Hall of Fame.

Born in Salford, he came to attention after in the late 1970s, becoming one of the youngest players on the British circuit at just 30 years old.

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By 1979 he stunned fans by reaching the semi-finals of the World Championship - before going on to win the UK Championship that same year.

Following his retirement in 1994, he went on to have a successful broadcasting career with the BBC.

He co-hosted TV show Big Break with comedian Jim Davidson during the 1990s.

During his time on the show he earned a comedic reputation for his impressions of snooker stars.

In retirement he also began playing exhibition games - where he became known for pulling off trick shots.

Virgo also lent his hand at acting - playing as himself in a radio play, Skunk, which follows an aspiring snooker player.

He also spoke candidly about his gambling addiction - once revealing that he borrowed £200,000 and eventually lost his home.

He is survived by his wife, publishing executive Rosie Ries, and his two children, Gary and Brook-Leah Virgo.

Former snooker player Mike Dunn described Virgo as a "great human being" in a social media post.

He said: "Very sadly I've just woke to the news that the great John Virgo has passed away.

"'I'm speechless and don't know what to say.

"I loved working with him, he was a great human being."

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(c) Sky News 2026: Snooker legend John Virgo, who co-hosted BBC show with Jim Davidson, dies aged 79