William Joseph Thorne (4 March 1954 – 17 June 2020) was a well‑known English professional snooker player and later a television commentator. During his playing career he combined a reputation for fluent break‑building with a friendly public persona that made him a familiar figure in British snooker from the 1970s through the 1990s. His career is often recalled for a series of high-profile matches, his single ranking tournament victory, and his post‑playing work in broadcasting.

Career and achievements

Thorne enjoyed success on the professional circuit and achieved a number of notable results. He won the 1985 Classic, his only ranking title, and reached the final of the 1985 UK Championship where he lost 16–14 to Steve Davis. He was nicknamed “Mr Maximum” in recognition of his ability to build high breaks and his frequent pursuit of maximum (147) breaks during competitive and exhibition play. After retiring from tournament snooker he remained involved in the sport as a commentator and analyst.

Playing style and reputation

Thorne was widely regarded as a skilful break‑builder with a strong cue action and good positional play. He often featured in televised matches and exhibitions, where his shot‑making and calm table manner were on display. While he did not collect a large number of ranking titles, his technique and flair earned him respect from peers and affection among fans.

Broadcasting and later life

Following the end of his top‑level playing career, Thorne worked as a snooker commentator and pundit, notably appearing for broadcasters such as the BBC. His broadcasting work kept him prominent in the snooker community and introduced his voice and insights to a wide television audience. He also participated in exhibitions and vintage snooker events.

Notable facts

  • Full name: William Joseph Thorne; born in Leicester, England, on 4 March 1954.
  • Winner of the 1985 Classic (only ranking title).
  • Runner‑up at the 1985 UK Championship, losing 16–14 to Steve Davis.
  • Known by the nickname Mr Maximum for his high‑break ambitions.

Illness and death

In early 2020 Thorne was diagnosed with leukaemia. In mid‑June 2020 his condition deteriorated; he was placed in an induced coma on 16 June after suffering respiratory complications, and died the following day in Torrevieja, Spain, on 17 June 2020. Reports cited sepsis related to his cancer as the cause of death. The circumstances of his final illness were widely reported in the snooker press and by mainstream outlets.

Thorne's life in professional snooker — a mix of competitive highs, television presence and a warm public profile — left a lasting impression on the sport in the United Kingdom. For further reading and career details, see contemporary match reports and broadcaster retrospectives.

Professional snooker | induced coma | respiratory failure | sepsis