After stepping down from her BBC Radio 2 breakfast show to focus on her family, Zoe Ball is making a surprise return to the spotlight.
The popular broadcaster, now 54, is set to appear on the BBC show Who Do You Think You Are? in the upcoming season.
Zoe, who comes from a famous family, will be tracing her family roots, with a source sharing that she’s “really excited” about discovering more about her heritage.
The show follows celebrities as they explore their family history, often traveling to other countries to dig deeper into their roots.
Zoe’s Upcoming Radio Return After Family Focus
Zoe’s return to the radio world is also on the horizon.
Although she stepped down from her high-profile breakfast show in December to focus on her family following the death of her mother Julia from cancer, Zoe isn’t staying away for long.
She’s set to launch a new weekly Saturday show on Radio 2, airing from 1 to 3 p.m., starting in May. The show promises to be filled with Zoe’s favorite music and fun moments, as well as reconnecting with her listeners.
Zoe will also be hosting several specials, including a celebration of Elaine Paige’s 60-year career in showbusiness.
Woody Cook Reflects on Family Time and His Mother’s Career Changes
Zoe’s son, Woody Cook, recently shared insights into how the family has been spending more time together.
Since Zoe’s departure from the radio, Woody, 24, noticed a big shift in his parents’ lifestyle.
He described how both Zoe and his father, Norman Cook (also known as Fatboy Slim), have taken up hobbies like gardening, working in a local café, and doing puzzles.
Woody finds it amusing that his “party animal” parents have embraced such quieter activities.
“It’s funny seeing my crazy parents gardening and making puzzles now,” he said.
A Closer Look at Zoe’s Family Dynamics and Career
Zoe’s son also opened up about the impact her decision to step down from her radio role had on their relationship.
Woody shared that their schedules had often been mismatched due to Zoe’s early mornings for the breakfast show and his late-night DJ shifts.
With her time off, he’s been able to spend more time with her, and he’s thrilled about the change. “It’s lovely seeing my mum more,” he said.
The family, despite being spread out geographically, is now more connected than ever, particularly after dealing with the recent losses of loved ones.
Family and Career: Zoe Ball’s Balancing Act After Difficult Year
Zoe’s recent time away from work allowed her to reconnect with her family and take a much-needed break after a challenging year.
She had the opportunity to visit Woody in New York while he worked on his music, which meant a lot to her.
Despite the time away from the radio, Zoe is still very much active in her career, with upcoming projects that are sure to keep her fans excited.
“She’s doing everything she’s been putting off and enjoying it,” Woody added, hinting that more surprises could be on the way for Zoe.
Bringing the Family Closer Together Amid Loss and Change
The family’s closer bond has been especially evident following the passing of Zoe’s mother, Julia, and Norman’s mother on Christmas Day.
Woody noted that losing loved ones can be a painful experience but also one that strengthens family ties.
“It brings everyone together,” he said, expressing the importance of cherishing the people around you.
Zoe’s recent time off, as well as her return to the spotlight, seems to have sparked a new chapter for her family, both personally and professionally.