In a poignant moment on Wednesday's edition of The One Show, presenters Alex Jones and JB Gill delivered heartfelt tributes following the announcement of snooker legend John Virgo's death at the age of 79.
Emotional Announcement on BBC Programme
The sad news was shared towards the close of the February 4 instalment of the popular BBC programme, with JB Gill taking a solemn moment to address viewers. "Before we go we just wanted to take a moment to mention today's news about the death of former UK snooker champion John Virgo at the age of 79," announced the television star.
Gill continued with warm reminiscence: "Many of us also fondly remember him from his commentating work and his TV programmes like Big Break so of course our thoughts are with his family and his friends." Co-host Alex Jones, seated beside him on the familiar sofa, echoed the sentiment with a simple but sincere "Of course" as a photograph of the late snooker icon appeared on screen.
Snooker Community Mourns a Broadcasting Giant
The announcement followed earlier confirmation of Virgo's passing, which prompted immediate waves of sorrow throughout the snooker world and beyond. World Snooker Tour released an official statement on their Instagram account expressing profound sadness at the loss of what they described as a "legendary snooker player and broadcaster."
The statement continued: "Our thoughts are with his family and loved ones. Rest in peace, JV." The tribute was accompanied by a dignified black and white photograph of Virgo marked with his life dates of 1946 to 2026.
Fans Share Memories and Tributes
Across social media platforms, fans have been sharing their personal memories and paying respects to the broadcasting icon. One admirer wrote on X: "To me John Virgo was like Eddie Butler was to rugby commentary, he was the voice of snooker," capturing the essential role Virgo played in the sport's presentation.
Another fan reflected on decades of viewing: "I grew up watching the snooker decades ago and watching John Virgo was always brilliant. His skill as a player was immense but what a great character RIP." The sentiment was echoed by many who simply described him as a "legend" of both the game and sports broadcasting.
The moving tributes from The One Show presenters and the wider community highlight the significant impact John Virgo had across multiple generations of snooker enthusiasts. His legacy encompasses not just his achievements as a former UK champion player, but perhaps more enduringly his decades of distinctive commentary and television work that made him a familiar and beloved figure in British households.
