Sara Cox officially launched the BBC Radio 2 Breakfast show on Monday, July 6, 2026, replacing Scott Mills after his dismissal. The Bolton-born broadcaster kicked off her first show with Lizzo's 'About Damn Time' at 6:31 am, joking about her song choices and playing 'Finally' by CeCe Peniston. She also featured 'Three Lions' by David Baddiel, Frank Skinner, and The Lightning Seeds following England's 3-2 World Cup victory against Mexico.
Listener Reactions and Show Highlights
Cox read out messages from listeners, encouraging them to keep texting. She said: "It is a Monday. It's my first show, and your favourite DJ, me feeling a little bit clingy, as per, and I want some love." Listeners quickly shared their verdict on social media. @curlewpaul said: "Great to hear you on the breakfast show @djsaracox - definitely your rightful place!" @alicia_stillyoga commented: "Wake up to the Sun shining, England beating Mexico and Sara starts radio 2 breakfast show- joyous Monday!!!"
Background on Scott Mills' Departure
Cox was announced as the permanent Breakfast Show host in April after Scott Mills was sacked by the BBC. It emerged that the Metropolitan Police launched an investigation into Mills in 2016 over allegations of serious sexual offences involving a boy aged under 16 between 1997 and 2000. Gary Davies filled in temporarily from March until Cox took over.
Cox Thanks Gary Davies and Recounts Husband's Football Spoiler
Cox thanked Gary Davies, who was "parachuted in" to cover the slot. She said: "For the past few months, a legend has been doing breakfast... The one, the only, you love him, Mr Gary Davies." She also recounted her husband Ben Cyzer's attempt to watch England match highlights without spoilers, but a fan yelling "Where were you when we won 3-2?" ruined it.
