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Zoe Ball has embarked on a fresh chapter following her departure from BBC Radio 2’s breakfast show. The veteran broadcaster now hosts Saturday afternoons whilst launching an exciting new podcast venture with longtime friend Jo Whiley.
Zoe Ball’s New Saturday Show Success
Zoe Ball returned to BBC Radio 2 in May 2025 with a relaxed Saturday afternoon programme. She jokingly announced her comeback with “back once again with the ill behaviour” during her first show.
The 54-year-old presenter admits enjoying “a few lie-ins” since leaving her demanding breakfast slot. She now broadcasts from 1pm to 3pm, a dramatic change from her previous 4am starts.
Zoe Ball described her return as coming full circle, noting she began at Radio 2 “sweeping up and making teas”. Her Saturday show provides more flexibility whilst maintaining her connection with loyal listeners.
Audience data shows Radio 2’s breakfast show lost 360,000 listeners after Ball’s departure. However, her Saturday programme attracts strong ratings within its afternoon slot.
Personal Tragedy and Recovery Journey
Zoe Ball previously opened up about experiencing shock for two years following boyfriend Billy Yates’s death. The 40-year-old cameraman tragically took his own life in May 2017 at his home in Putney.
Ball described feeling “in complete shock” during the aftermath of Yates’s suicide. She struggled to process the sudden loss whilst maintaining her professional broadcasting commitments.
The presenter revealed how grief affected her daily functioning and mental health. Zoe Ball sought professional support to cope with the traumatic experience.
Friends and colleagues provided crucial emotional support during her darkest period. The Radio 2 family rallied around Ball as she navigated her bereavement journey.
Family Focus After Breakfast Show Exit
Zoe Ball left her breakfast show in December 2024 to prioritise family time. She cited wanting to “step away from early mornings and focus on family” as her primary motivation.
Her decision followed a challenging 2024 that included caring for terminally ill mother Julia Peckham. Peckham died from advanced pancreatic cancer in April 2024 aged 74.
Zoe Ball took extended breaks throughout 2024 to support her mother during treatment. The emotional toll contributed to her eventual decision to leave the demanding breakfast schedule.
She now spends quality time with children Woody and Nelly from her marriage to Norman Cook. Ball also maintains an amicable relationship with ex-husband Fatboy Slim.
New Podcast Venture with Jo Whiley
Zoe Ball announced her collaboration with Jo Whiley on lifestyle podcast “Dig It”. The show launched in July 2025, featuring their 30-year friendship and broadcasting experience.
Both presenters will discuss family life, gardening, health, ageing, and grief openly. The podcast provides unscripted conversations away from traditional radio constraints.
Zoe Ball expressed excitement about exploring podcasting with her “dear friend” Whiley. Their partnership dates back to The Big Breakfast and early Radio 1 days.
Persephonica produces the show, known for successful podcasts including Miss Me? with Lily Allen. Two episodes weekly will feature regular content plus bonus material for subscribers.
Health Challenges and TMJ Disorder
Zoe Ball revealed suffering from TMJ (temporomandibular joint) disorder affecting her jaw. The condition causes “awful headaches” upon waking each morning.
She received treatment for the painful disorder throughout 2024. The early breakfast show starts likely aggravated her symptoms significantly.
Zoe Ball credits improved health management as a factor in her schedule change. The Saturday afternoon slot provides better work-life balance for recovery.
Medical professionals supported her decision to reduce early morning commitments. Her openness about health struggles encourages others facing similar challenges.
Broadcasting Legacy and Future Plans
Zoe Ball made history as Radio 2’s first full-time female breakfast presenter in 2019. She succeeded Chris Evans and maintained audience figures above six million listeners.
Her career spans over 30 years from Live & Kicking to Radio 1 breakfast show. Ball became the first female presenter of Radio 1’s breakfast programme in 1998.
Zoe Ball remains the BBC’s second-highest paid presenter after Gary Lineker. Her 2023-24 earnings reached £950,000 annually.
The presenter continues developing various media projects beyond radio broadcasting. Her production interests align with her passion for authentic storytelling.
Current Lifestyle and Personal Growth
Zoe Ball has embraced gardening, puzzles, and working at local cafés. Son Woody described his parents’ transformation from “wild party people” to peaceful domesticity.
She spends time with ex-husband Norman Cook in their shared interests. Their co-parenting relationship demonstrates maturity and mutual respect.
Zoe Ball prioritises mental health and self-care following previous struggles. She advocates for seeking professional support during difficult periods.
The broadcaster maintains strong friendships within the entertainment industry. Her podcast venture reflects her commitment to authentic relationships.
Impact on Radio 2 and Broadcasting Industry
Zoe Ball’s departure marked the end of an era for Radio 2 breakfast programming. Scott Mills inherited the slot but faces challenges maintaining audience numbers.
Her influence on female broadcasting representation cannot be overstated. Ball paved the way for future women in prominent radio positions.
Zoe Ball continues inspiring through her honest discussions about mental health. Her openness helps reduce stigma surrounding grief and depression.
The industry respects her decision to prioritise personal wellbeing over career demands. Ball demonstrates that successful broadcasters can make lifestyle changes without losing relevance.
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