Dennis Taylor remains one of the most recognisable figures in snooker, having been a regular presence on television screens for decades. For enthusiasts who recall the sport's golden era of the 1980s, this time of year invariably brings the Northern Irishman to mind. Taylor featured in what is widely considered the most memorable final in World Snooker Championship history, defeating Steve Davis 18-17 to claim the world title in 1985. He has stayed a familiar face on TV ever since.
Taylor's opponent, Davis, was pursuing a third consecutive victory and a fourth in five years. The final went down to the wire, becoming known as 'the black ball final' because whoever potted the final black would lift the trophy. The 1985 triumph marked Taylor's second Crucible final appearance, with the first in 1979 ending in defeat to Terry Griffiths. Now aged 77, he is typically seen working as a pundit or commentator and has led an eventful life away from the table.
Taylor continues to hold a place among snooker's most recognisable personalities, partly thanks to his signature spectacles and distinctive voice in the commentary box. Here, we examine his life beyond the baize.
Divorce and Second Marriage
Taylor has five children from his two marriages. Three are with his first wife, Patricia, with the couple separating in 1993 after 23 years of marriage. The player suggested the mounting pressure following his world title triumph played a role in the split. The snooker legend walked down the aisle for a second time in 2001. He has two children with wife Louise: a daughter named Amber and a son named Cameron.
Backlash to BBC Decision
Taylor has been a popular figure on BBC snooker broadcasts, and this popularity came to the fore when it appeared he and fellow former player John Virgo might be dropped from our screens. Their retention came after viewers made their feelings known, with the broadcaster ultimately reversing the decision to axe the pair. Former professional Joe Perry told Metro: "I've worked with Virgo and Dennis, and what they know doesn't come cheaply; that's years and years of experience. They might miss a few tricks with some shots that some boys play today, but they do know their stuff and they're excellent at their job." Perry added: "Commentary isn't just what's going on on the table; there's introducing the frames, closing the frames out, creating the drama, and they're excellent at that. We might understand the modern game a bit better, but we've got a lot to learn from them on that part of the job."
Poignant Request for John Virgo's Family
Virgo passed away unexpectedly in early 2026 at the age of 79 and was still actively involved in snooker broadcasting at the time. There was a moment's applause for the snooker icon before this year's World Championship commenced, while a touching request from his long-time colleague Taylor emerged during the early stages of the competition. As disclosed by presenter Hazel Irvine, Taylor sought permission from Virgo's relatives to incorporate some of his late friend's signature catchphrases into his commentary this year. This followed Taylor speaking at a memorial service for Virgo held in Sheffield. Taylor said: "John wasn't only loved by snooker fans around the world, he was loved for what he did on Big Break with Jim Davidson – people watched that show in their millions – and, of course, he did a lot of pantomime. He had an awful lot of support there, which was wonderful. There were some lovely words from Brook Leah, his daughter, and Gary, his son."
