Ball, who has been at the helm for six years, announced her departure on air today, simultaneously revealing Mills as her successor. Her final show is set for 20 December.
Mills, a familiar voice to BBC listeners, currently presents Radio 2’s weekday afternoon show. Previously, he hosted The Scott Mills Show on Radio 1 from 2004 to 2022. With Mills moving to breakfast, Trevor Nelson will step into his afternoon slot.
Ball, the BBC’s second-highest-paid presenter, used her announcement to express gratitude and explain her decision to step away.
“After six incredible years on the Radio 2 Breakfast Show, it’s time for me to step away from the very early mornings and focus on family,” she said. “It’s been a privilege. I think the world of you listeners and I’m grateful to my bosses here for their support, especially this year.”
Helen Thomas, Head of Radio 2, praised Ball for her dedication and enthusiasm, said, “Thank you, Zoe, for approaching each show with as much vim and vigour as if it were her first.”
Ball’s breakfast show attracts millions of listeners weekly, making it one of the BBC’s most valuable radio slots. Last year, she earned between £950,000 and £954,999, according to the BBC’s annual report, second only to Gary Lineker.
Lineker, who recently announced his departure from Match of the Day, will also remain with the BBC to lead other football coverage, mirroring Ball’s decision to stay within the broadcaster’s fold. Details about her next role are expected in early 2024.
Ball first joined BBC radio in 1997 as co-host of Radio 1’s Breakfast Show, becoming the first woman to host it solo a year later. Her journey with Radio 2 began in 2006 with documentaries and other programs. By 2018, she succeeded Chris Evans as the breakfast show host, cementing her place as a leading voice on the station.
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