Zoe Ball has officially signed on for her next radio role, taking over the weekday afternoon slot on Greatest Hits Radio from September 7, 2026. She replaces Kate Thornton and will be sandwiched between former BBC Radio 2 colleagues Ken Bruce and Simon Mayo.
New Role Confirmed
The 55-year-old broadcaster, who earned between £515,000 and £519,999 at the BBC, left her Radio 2 Breakfast Show in 2024 and stepped down from her Saturday afternoon show last year. The news was announced via a The Traitors-style video on social media, where Mayo and Bruce uncloaked to reveal Ball.
Greatest Hits Radio posted on Instagram: "One more from the old place! Please welcome our newest recruit. Zoe Ball in the Afternoon launches 7th September 2026, only on Greatest Hits Radio."
Ball's Statement
Ball said: "There's something truly special about radio - the relationship you build with listeners, the energy, the music and the moments of joy and laughter you share together. I've missed it, and this felt like the right time to begin a new chapter with Greatest Hits Radio. As a station, Greatest Hits Radio has built something really brilliant - epic music, big personalities and a genuine connection with listeners. I'm excited to be joining the team and getting started."
Reaction from Kate Thornton and Station Boss
Kate Thornton, who will be replaced, said: "Zoe's an incredible signing, an incredible broadcaster and a good friend. I'll be first in line to welcome her to the Greatest Hits Family." Thornton will launch a new prime-time weekend show on Saturdays.
Andy Ashton, Greatest Hits Radio Content Director, said: "I could not be more thrilled to welcome Zoe to the Greatest Hits Radio family. The whole team are buzzing that another world-class broadcaster will be part of our daytime line-up every weekday. Zoe and the team are already working on the new show, and we can't wait to share it with everyone. Roll on September 7th, and another huge moment for Greatest Hits Radio as the nation tunes in to hear Zoe hit play on her first song!"
Background on BBC Exit
Speaking about her BBC exit last year, Ball said: "I have loved being betwixt my dear friends Romesh and Rylan, and you know, I love you all to bits, but I'm not disappearing completely." She noted she would still do Christmas Crooners and an eras show in the new year. Ball spent almost six years on early mornings and returned five months later for a Saturday 1pm-3pm slot. She cited a desire to "focus on her family" and escape the "very early mornings," with her 4am alarm clock taking a toll.
