Saturday lunchtime took an unexpected turn for BBC Radio 2 listeners when Zoe Ball shared some personal news live on air.
Rather than easing into another familiar weekend show, the much-loved broadcaster revealed she’s stepping away from her Saturday slot—just seven months after returning to the station.
Zoe Ball Confirms Her Exit From the Weekend Show
At 55, Zoe explained that her final Saturday programme will air on December 20, marking a swift but heartfelt goodbye.
She only returned to Radio 2 in May after leaving the prestigious Breakfast Show last year, making the announcement all the more surprising.
While she’s bowing out of the regular weekend role, Zoe made it clear she’s not vanishing entirely.
Not Goodbye Forever as Specials Remain on the Horizon
Speaking directly to listeners, Zoe reassured fans that she’ll still pop up on the station for special projects.
From festive favourites like Christmas Crooners to an upcoming Eras show in the New Year, she promised there’s plenty more to come—just not every Saturday.
Emma Willis Steps In as the New Saturday Voice
Zoe also used the moment to reveal her successor, announcing that Emma Willis will officially take over the slot.
Clearly delighted, Zoe described Emma as a familiar and trusted presence, telling listeners they’ll be “in the safest of hands” as Emma joins the Radio 2 family full-time.
Zoe’s Fond Farewell to Her Radio 2 Family
In a statement released later, Zoe reflected warmly on her time hosting Saturday lunchtimes.
She spoke fondly about the listeners, the stories shared on air, and her weekly laughs with Romesh Ranganathan and Rylan Clark.
Handing over the reins, she couldn’t hide her excitement for Emma, calling her “pure sunshine” and predicting she’ll bring plenty of joy—and great music—to Saturdays.
Emma Willis Shares Her Excitement and Gratitude
Emma, 49, responded with equal enthusiasm, saying she’s long been a fan of Radio 2 and feels honoured to follow in Zoe’s footsteps.
She described the role as a privilege and joked she’d happily become the “filling” between Romesh and Rylan every weekend.
BBC Confirms the News and Teases Zoe’s Next Project
The BBC later confirmed the shake-up on Instagram, while also spotlighting Zoe’s next venture.
Her first new special will be a fresh series of the award-winning Eras podcast for Radio 2 and BBC Sounds, focusing on the life and legendary career of Phil Collins.
Emma’s Familiar Face and Voice to Radio 2 Fans
Although best known for her TV work on shows like The Voice and Love Is Blind UK, which she hosts alongside her husband Matt Willis, Emma is no stranger to Radio 2.
She’s previously stepped in as a guest presenter, earning praise from listeners during her stints behind the mic.
Warm Reactions From Fans and Famous Friends
The announcement sparked an outpouring of support online.
Rylan affectionately told Zoe to put her feet up, while welcoming Emma as his new “radio wife.”
Emma responded with heart emojis, and Gareth Malone jokingly hinted that bookmakers might want to pay attention—fueling playful speculation about Zoe’s future.
Fans echoed the love, with many saying they’ll miss Zoe, while others celebrated Emma’s appointment as a brilliant addition to the weekend lineup.
The Personal Journey Behind Zoe’s Career Changes
Zoe’s decision comes after a deeply challenging period.
She stepped down from the Radio 2 Breakfast Show in December last year, handing over to Scott Mills and walking away from a reported £950,000 salary to focus on her family.
That choice followed an extended break earlier in the year after the death of her mother, Julia, from pancreatic cancer in April 2024.
Opening Up About Grief and Burnout
In a candid conversation on her Dig It podcast with Jo Whiley, Zoe spoke openly about the toll her loss took on her mental health.
She described being unable to work, emotionally overwhelmed, and experiencing a breakdown that forced her to stop.
With the help of a compassionate doctor, she began the process of recovery—something she admitted she hadn’t spoken much about before.
A Daughter’s Tribute That Touched Many
When announcing her mother’s passing, Zoe shared a heartfelt message on social media, thanking her for teaching unconditional love, courage, empathy, and the healing power of laughter—even in the darkest moments.
It was a glimpse into the personal strength behind the broadcaster millions hear on air.
What’s Next?
For now, Zoe is stepping back from the weekly routine while keeping creative doors open through special programmes and podcasts.
Emma Willis prepares to settle into her new Saturday role, bringing fresh energy to Radio 2’s weekend lineup. One chapter may be closing, but for both women, the next one is already taking shape.
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