Beloved broadcaster Zoe Ball has spoken candidly about the profound personal challenges that influenced her decision to step away from her high-profile BBC Radio 2 roles, while also announcing exciting new television ventures for the year ahead.
A Year of Reflection and Grief
In a heartfelt discussion on her Dig It podcast with co-host Jo Whiley, the 55-year-old presenter reflected on what she described as an "interesting" and "reflective" 2025. This period of quiet followed her departure from two significant BBC commitments in quick succession.
Ball left her role as host of the BBC Radio 2 Breakfast Show in November 2024, after nearly six years in the coveted slot. At the time, she was reportedly the corporation's second-highest paid presenter, earning £950,000 annually. Her exit was followed, seven months later, by stepping down from a Saturday afternoon slot on the station in May 2025, which she handed over to Emma Willis.
The catalyst for this major career shift was deeply personal. Ball's mother, Julia, died from cancer in April 2024, leading the presenter to take a lengthy break from her programme. On the podcast, Ball revealed that her mother's passing was part of a wider tapestry of grief she had not previously allowed herself time to process.
Behind the Chirpy Persona
"I miss it and I miss the audience, I will fully admit to that, it was one of the best jobs I ever had," Ball confessed about her Breakfast Show role. However, she explained that leaving created essential space for healing.
"But I think after losing mum, so much had happened and not just losing mum, there was other stuff that had gone on before that," she shared. "This year has finally given me some time for myself to deal with lots of grief from my life... and other things that I'd perhaps not given the time to grieve."
She described the experience as "incredible" and "eye-opening," acknowledging a tendency to "just keep on running" from difficult emotions. Ball expressed gratitude for the opportunity to pause, recognising that such a privilege is not available to everyone. This time has allowed her to create precious memories with her two children, including watching her son Woody DJ at Glastonbury and family trips to Ibiza.
Looking Forward: New Television Projects
While valuing her quieter year for her "heart and soul," Ball is now poised for a busier schedule. She disclosed to Jo Whiley that stepping back from her daily radio commitments has enabled her to embark on three new television projects, which she is "really excited" about.
"I'm really excited about [them]," she revealed, before adding: "Life has been quite quiet and I have really needed that. And I think next year, it's going to ramp right up again."
Although she has left her regular slots, Ball remains connected to BBC Radio 2, committed to presenting special programmes for the station. Scott Mills succeeded her on the Breakfast Show, while Emma Willis now hosts the Saturday afternoon programme she briefly occupied.
