After a period of focusing on her health and family, Zoe Ball could be making a return to television—and this time, it might be a family affair.
The BBC Radio 2 star is reportedly in talks to front a brand-new educational series, and the surprise twist? She’d be sharing the screen with both her legendary dad, Johnny Ball, and her DJ son, Woody Cook.
A Family Lineup Tackling the History of Maths
Zoe’s 87-year-old father Johnny, famous for making maths exciting for generations of kids, is said to be the brains behind the project.
According to The Sun, the new TV series will dive into the history of mathematics—with Johnny, Zoe (now 54), and Woody (24) taking viewers on a journey across time, knowledge, and family bonds.
Johnny reportedly turned down an offer for the trio to appear on Celebrity Race Across The World because he’s so dedicated to this new idea.
His vision for the show? To explore maths through three generations, combining knowledge, charisma, and personality.
The content will be based on the first six chapters of his book Wonders Beyond Numbers, with Johnny saying the show can be made “light and transparent” for everyone to enjoy.
Zoe and Woody Reunite on Screen
If the project goes ahead, this won’t be the first time Zoe and Woody team up on TV.
The mother-son duo previously made an appearance on Gogglebox, giving fans a rare glimpse into their home life.
Now, with Johnny in the mix, this upcoming series would add an educational spin to their family dynamic.
Johnny explained his casting logic clearly, telling The Sun: “Each of us brings something unique for every age group, making it a revealing and fascinating watch.”
Safe to say, it sounds like more than just another dry maths show.
Zoe Opens Up About Health Struggles
This news comes shortly after Zoe opened up to listeners about her ongoing health issues.
Since returning to the airwaves in May, she’s revealed she’s been diagnosed with bursitis—a painful condition where the small fluid-filled sacs around joints become swollen.
On her Saturday afternoon Radio 2 show, Zoe joked with her usual charm: “Yes, it’s come to that.
Fifty-four and I got bursitis.” Despite the discomfort, she’s been pushing through with help from her personal trainer, Seth.
She even proudly shared her recent fitness level score, saying, “I was quite impressed with myself… You’ve gotta start somewhere, haven’t you?”
From Breakfast Show Exit to Radio Return
Zoe’s return to the BBC earlier this year marked her comeback after stepping down from the breakfast show last December.
At the time, she made it clear the decision was about prioritising family, especially after losing her mum, Julia, in April 2023.
Listeners were thrilled to have her back. Her warm greeting—“Hello, it’s me, oh it’s lovely to be back on a Saturday”—tugged at hearts.
One fan summed up the vibe perfectly, saying, “Saturday afternoon is much better than having to wake up early.”
New Radio Show and TV Specials on the Horizon
Zoe now hosts a weekly show on BBC Radio 2 from 1–3pm every Saturday, and the station also has big plans for her beyond radio.
She’s been lined up to present two TV specials, including a tribute show for Elaine Paige’s incredible 60-year career in showbiz.
Radio 2 boss Helen Thomas sang Zoe’s praises, calling her “one of the UK’s most loved presenters,” and added that the team is excited to have her involved in upcoming programming.