Sam Vaughan, the husband of former BBC Radio 2 host Scott Mills, appeared to make a subtle dig at Sara Cox as she debuted her new breakfast show on Monday, July 6, 2026. Vaughan, 37, shared a cryptic Instagram Story showing the couple's Cavapoo, Teddy, in their lounge with the Heart FM logo displayed on the television in the background, making it clear he was not tuning into Cox's first broadcast.
Background of the Rift
Mills was axed from his Radio 2 Breakfast Show earlier this year after the BBC learned that the alleged victim of a historic police investigation into him was under 16 at the time of the alleged offences. Mills was never charged, and the investigation was dropped. Cox, a longtime friend of Mills for three decades, replaced him. Mills has not publicly commented on his replacement.
Sara Cox began her first show at 6:31 AM, playing Lizzo's "About Damn Time" and joking about the song choice. She later teased Etta James' "At Last" and engaged with listeners. Actor Tom Hanks called in to promote Toy Story 5, referring to Cox as "the most popular girl on the airwaves."
Fan Reactions and New Format
Listeners praised Cox's debut, with one Facebook commenter saying she was "nailing it" and another loving the "choice of opening songs." A third fan called her a "super talent and perfect for the job." BBC bosses have promised a "fresh new format" for the show, featuring fun games, listener interaction, and celebrity interviews.
The Mirror has approached Scott Mills and Sam Vaughan for comment. Cox's show airs weekdays on BBC Radio 2 and is available on BBC Sounds.
