Radio DJ Zoe Ball has made a rare and candid admission about her 2016 divorce from DJ Norman Cook, famously known as Fatboy Slim, describing the experience as "scary" and "overwhelming on so many fronts." The former couple, who were married for 17 years, share two children and have maintained an amicable relationship since their split.
Zoe Ball's Honest Reflections on Divorce
On her podcast Digitpod, which she hosts alongside fellow Radio 2 presenter Jo Whiley, Zoe opened up in response to a listener's question about navigating divorce. She revealed, "The anticipation of divorce is everything. You try everything, then you just think... this is not working." She added thoughtfully, "And then the anticipation of coming out with it and saying to your partner, 'Right, this is the time' it's scary. It's overwhelming on all fronts. You're worrying about the kids, you're worrying about your partner, you're worrying about you and how it will all work out."
From Marriage to Amicable Co-Parenting
Zoe Ball and Norman Cook announced their divorce in 2016, explaining at the time that they had simply grown apart. Zoe, once known as a 'ladette' in the 1990s, reportedly still wanted to "go out and have fun," while Norman preferred a quieter home life. Despite this, their split was notably amicable, and they remain close friends and supportive co-parents to their children: Woody, 25, who is also a DJ, and daughter Nelly, 16. The pair even live near each other in Lewes, Sussex, and are often seen together, whether grabbing coffee or enjoying family time.
Zoe emphasized the positive outcome, stating, "Something I can tell you from personal experience, is yes, it is a lot to go through, but you will come out the other side of it, but the fact that you know that you need to do this? You will all be better in the end." She has previously expressed that she "loves" the relationship she now has with her ex-husband.
Listener Reactions and Broader Advice
Followers were quick to respond to Zoe's comments, with one writing, "This conversation was so affirming and relatable from two women I admire so much." Another who has experienced divorce penned, "Thank you! It's the most scary time the run p & it can be a looong time but you are 100% right it will be alright for everyone."
Earlier this month, Zoe also shared guidance with another podcast listener who was struggling with introducing a new romantic interest to her children after ending an 18-year marriage. The listener revealed she had left her marriage feeling "desperately unhappy" and was anxious about telling her sons, who blamed her for the split. Zoe responded empathetically, "Well, yes I have had this and quite a few times," before joking about her children's reaction to her dating life: "Another one?! as my kids would say, just kidding."
She added, "But firstly, yes it is so hard to leave a relationship when you know it's the right thing to do. It's just so difficult, you feel awful for the person you've left, you feel terrible for breaking up a family, you feel guilty for your family, it is a lot. It does take such bravery but when you're out and the dust starts to settle, you realise it was exactly what you needed to do. And hopefully as your kids get older you can talk to them a little bit more about why that happened. Sometimes you might not want to talk to them about that, they might not want to hear it."
Life After Divorce
Since her divorce, Zoe Ball has had several romantic relationships. She is currently in a relationship with Mathieu Weekes, a BAFTA-winning TV production designer, since 2024. On her podcast with Jo Whiley, she revealed they have moved in together, humorously referring to him as 'The Lodger.' Zoe quit her Saturday afternoon Radio 2 show last December but continues to connect with audiences through her podcast, offering insights into personal challenges and wellness.
Her openness about divorce and co-parenting highlights the complexities of ending a long-term marriage, especially in the public eye, while demonstrating that amicable post-divorce relationships are achievable. Zoe's story serves as a reminder of the emotional turmoil involved but also the potential for growth and happiness on the other side.
