Clive Everton English former professional snooker player Date of Birth: 07.09.1937 Country: Great Britain

1. Clive Everton: A Snooker Legend
2. Hall of Fame and MBE
3. A Stellar Playing Career
4. Transition to Commentary
5. Analytical Commentary Style
6. Memorable Moments
7. Autobiography and Personal Challenges
8. Later Career and Legacy
9. Final Years and Passing

Clive Everton: A Snooker Legend

Clive Everton, a renowned English former snooker player and respected commentator, left an indelible mark on the world of snooker.

Hall of Fame and MBE

Everton was inducted into the Snooker Hall of Fame in 2017 and received the Order of the British Empire (MBE) in the Queen's Birthday Honours in June 2019 for his outstanding contributions to snooker.

A Stellar Playing Career

Despite facing a setback due to back injuries, Everton became a professional player in both snooker and English billiards in 1981. He achieved notable success in English billiards, reaching the World Championship semifinals in 1975 and 1977, and was ranked ninth in the world.

Transition to Commentary

Everton's passion for snooker extended beyond playing. He began his broadcasting career as a radio commentator and later transitioned to television. His debut as a TV commentator was at the 1978 World Championship. He became a regular commentator for the BBC's World Championship coverage and also covered Premier League snooker for Sky Sports.

Analytical Commentary Style

Everton's commentary style was known for its formality and analytical approach, standing out from the more informal styles of his peers. He possessed a deep knowledge of the game and a precise, fact-filled commentary that highlighted his love for snooker. His signature use of surnames added a professional touch to his broadcasts.

Memorable Moments

Everton's commentary career was not without its humorous moments. While commentating with Dennis Taylor, he once famously fell off his chair live on air, leaving both commentators in uncontrollable laughter. During the 2007 World Championship final, he dislocated his hip, missing part of the match. He later joked that he had been skateboarding, but it was actually an injury sustained while stepping out of the shower.

Autobiography and Personal Challenges

In 2007, Everton published his autobiography, which also included a history of snooker. In 2008, while commenting on Ronnie O'Sullivan's mental health struggles, he revealed that he had battled depression in the past.

Later Career and Legacy

Despite his influence on BBC commentary, Everton's role began to diminish in 2009. He no longer covered prestigious events like the Masters and his World Championship coverage was limited to the early rounds. Advancing age, an outdated delivery style, and less notable playing achievements compared to other BBC commentators were cited as reasons for this decline.

Final Years and Passing

Everton continued to commentate for Sky Sports, covering Premier League matches and the World Series of Snooker for Eurosport. He sadly passed away on September 27, 2024, at the age of 87. Clive Everton's legacy as a respected snooker player and commentator will forever be etched in the annals of the game.