John Virgo’s widow ‘in shock’ over death as she ‘can’t imagine life’ without snooker icon.

John Virgo’s widow ‘in shock’ over death as she ‘can’t imagine life’ without snooker icon.

 

 

 

 

Snooker and television fans around the world are mourning the loss of John Virgo, the beloved British snooker champion, broadcaster and TV personality, whose sudden death at the age of 79 has left his family devastated — especially his wife, Rosie Virgo, who has been left struggling to come to terms with the “unimaginable” loss.

Virgo, a household name in cue sport and entertainment for more than five decades, died on 4 February 2026 at his home in Spain, where he had been living with his wife Rosie and close family. The World Snooker Tour confirmed the news in a heartfelt statement, saying it was “deeply saddened” by the passing of the snooker great and offering condolences to his loved ones.

According to reports, Rosie — a former publishing executive whom Virgo married in 2009 — is in a state of profound shock, overwhelmed by the sudden loss of her husband and lifelong partner. Friends close to the family said she has described life without John as “unimaginable”, reflecting how central he was not only to the sport but to her own life. His death came just weeks after he had been actively working in snooker commentary, including his final BBC appearance at the Masters in January.

A life intertwined with snooker and family

John Virgo first rose to prominence in the snooker world in the late 1970s. Turning professional in 1976, he quickly made his mark, winning the 1979 UK Championship — one of the sport’s most prestigious titles — and reaching the semi-finals of the World Championship that same year.

However, it was his affable personality and distinctive broadcasting style that endeared him to a much wider audience. Transitioning from player to commentator and personality, Virgo became an iconic voice in snooker, known for his trademark catchphrase “Where’s the cue ball going?” — a line that became synonymous with televised snooker commentary.

Beyond the commentary box, he achieved crossover fame as co-host of the BBC’s popular game show Big Break from 1991 to 2002, alongside comedian Jim Davidson. The programme — blending snooker puzzle challenges with light entertainment — introduced Virgo to a generation of viewers who knew him as much for his warmth, humour, and trick shots as for his cue-sports expertise.

Tributes pour in as family grieve

News of Virgo’s passing prompted an outpouring of tributes from the snooker community and beyond. World number one players, fellow commentators, and fans around the world took to social media to express their condolences and share memories of a man who “transcended the sport.”

Seven-time world champion Ronnie O’Sullivan described Virgo as a “great mate”, saying he was “absolutely gutted” on hearing the news during a match at the World Grand Prix in Hong Kong, and sending love to Rosie and the family.

Former professional Shaun Murphy and other stars such as Reanne Evans and Neil Robertson also posted heartfelt messages, remembering Virgo not only for his knowledge and commentary but for his kindness and generous spirit.

Jim Davidson, Virgo’s Big Break partner, spoke this week about the shock of losing his close friend, recalling how John’s daughter had called to share the news and left the family in deep disbelief. In tributes that highlighted his joie de vivre and quick wit, many within the sport said they were still trying to process the reality of his absence.

A family left behind

Virgo is survived by his wife, Rosie, his son Gary and daughter Brook-Leah, as well as grandchildren — the family at the centre of the tributes and condolences pouring in from around the world. His wife’s close circle described her as “incredibly shaken” by the loss, saying she often spoke about how lucky she felt to share her life with someone who brought joy to millions through sport and television.

As the snooker world prepares for further tributes and memorials, Rosie and the family continue to receive messages of support from fans and colleagues alike — a testament to John Virgo’s enduring legacy and the profound impact he had on both his sport and those who knew him best.