During snooker’s heyday in the 1980s, Willie Thorne was one of the game’s best known and well-liked players.
He won 14 major titles and made a record 190 maximum 147 breaks, earning himself the nickname ‘Mr Maximum’.
He played alongside Alex Higgins, Steve Davis and Dennis Taylor where millions would tune into watch tournaments live on television.
Willie was one of the most recognisable sports people in the UK and even competed in BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing.
However, behind the scenes, he was also a serious gambling addict, blowing over £1.5 million at the bookmakers and casinos.
He even placed bets on games he was commentating on, once betting on John Parrott to lose, which nearly cost him everything.
He was declared bankrupt and suffered from depression before attempting suicide.
But Willie has overcome his demons with an inspirational recovery from the brink.
He spoke to The Last Word earlier, listen back here:
