Zoe Ball has joined Greatest Hits Radio to host weekday afternoons, starting September 7, 2026, replacing Kate Thornton. The 55-year-old broadcaster left her BBC Radio 2 Breakfast Show slot in 2024 and her Saturday afternoon show in 2025. Her new role places her between former Radio 2 colleagues Ken Bruce and Simon Mayo.
New role confirmed in social media video
Greatest Hits Radio confirmed the news on Instagram on June 30, 2026, with a Traitors-style video showing Mayo and Bruce uncloaking before Ball reveals herself. The caption read: "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 on joining
Speaking about her new role, 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."
Strictly Come Dancing heartbreak
After leaving Radio 2, Ball auditioned to host Strictly Come Dancing, having previously competed on the show and fronted spin-off It Takes Two in 2021. However, BBC bosses chose Emma Willis, Josh Widdicombe, and Johannes Radebe as new presenters. Ball told friend Jo Whiley: "I didn't get it, but it's OK. I have worked through the seven stages of grief and rejection over the last couple of days. I was so chuffed to even be in the mix." She later said she was "thrilled" by the additions.
Reaction from Kate Thornton and station director
Kate Thornton, who Ball replaces, 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."
Ball's BBC exit and salary
Ball earned between £515,000 and £519,999 for her BBC Radio 2 role. Discussing her exit last year, she said: "I have loved being betwixt my dear friends Romesh and Rylan, but I'm not disappearing completely." She confirmed she would still do Christmas Crooners and an eras show. She introduced Emma Willis as her replacement on Saturday afternoons, calling her "a superwoman."
