Sara Cox is set to take over as the new host of the BBC Radio 2 breakfast show, replacing Scott Mills following his dismissal over allegations concerning his personal conduct. The announcement comes amid ongoing scrutiny of the BBC's handling of a 2017 police investigation into Mills regarding allegations of sexual abuse. The corporation confirmed it was first informed of the investigation in 2017, but no charges were brought, and Mills continued in his role.
Background on the Change
Last month, the BBC terminated Mills's contract, citing its ‘culture and values’. The broadcaster did not specify what new information prompted this action. Mills had taken over the breakfast show in 2025 after longtime host Zoe Ball stepped down. Cox, who currently hosts the teatime show from 4pm to 7pm, will move to the breakfast slot in the summer.
Cox's Reaction
Expressing her excitement, Cox stated, ‘There are not enough adjectives to really sum up how I’m feeling about being trusted with such an iconic show but let’s start with ecstatic, honoured and incredibly chuffed. It’s been a dream to host the breakfast show since I joined Radio 2 and it feels like a bit of a full circle for me.’ She added, ‘I’ve had the most glorious seven years of my career on teatime so thank you to my brilliant teatime listeners who hopefully will join me at breakfast for excellent music and all my usual nonsense plus some superstar guests. I honestly can’t wait to wake the nation up with the biggest, most fun breakfast show ever.’
Radio 2's Popularity
Latest industry figures from Rajar, published in February, show that Radio 2 remains the UK's most popular radio station. Mills's programme was the most listened-to breakfast show in the UK, with a weekly audience of 6.47 million between October and December 2025.
BBC's Response
Helen Thomas, head of Radio 2, commented: ‘I’m delighted that Sara Cox will be the new host of the prestigious Radio 2 breakfast show. Sara is adored by her millions of listeners at teatime, and having regularly deputised in the slot, I already know she’ll build a brilliant rapport with the breakfast audience and get the nation going each morning with her trademark warmth and humour.’
Mills's Statement
Referring to the allegations, Mills previously said: ‘Since the investigation related to an allegation that dates back nearly 30 years and the police investigation was closed seven years ago, I hope that the public and the media will understand and respect my wish not to make any further public comment on this matter. I wish to thank from the bottom of my heart all those who have reached out to me with kindness, my former colleagues, and my beloved listeners, who I greatly miss.’
