Dennis Taylor has paid a heartfelt tribute to his late friend and snooker icon John Virgo, who passed away at the age of 79 earlier this month. Virgo, known for winning the 1979 UK Championship as a player and later becoming a prominent broadcaster, was a beloved figure in the world of snooker, particularly renowned for his role on the popular game show Big Break.

Taylor, a fellow snooker legend, shared the screen with Virgo on various occasions, including the historic moment when Ronnie O’Sullivan achieved the fastest maximum break in the 1997 World Snooker Championship. Virgo, who was a prominent voice in snooker for nearly four decades, tragically passed away on February 4 in Spain due to a ruptured aorta. Taylor expressed his deep condolences for his dear friend during the BBC’s coverage of the Welsh Open.

Reflecting on their long friendship and shared experiences, Taylor described Virgo as a showman, commentator, and entertainer with a remarkable talent. Recalling their time together in the commentary box, Taylor highlighted their passion for engaging viewers as if they were watching a game of snooker in a living room. Both known for their entertaining personalities, Taylor reminisced about the humor, trick shots, and impersonations that made them popular figures in the snooker world.

Taylor fondly remembered the fun they had during exhibitions and shows, particularly mentioning Virgo’s memorable impersonations, including a hilarious imitation of snooker player Ray Reardon. He emphasized the joy they found in their work and the special bond they shared over the years. Taylor concluded his tribute by expressing his sorrow at the loss of Virgo, a sentiment echoed by the entire snooker community. As a final nod to their shared memories, Taylor fondly recalled Jim Davidson’s signature sign-off from Big Break, saying, “Goodnight, JV.”