Zoe Ball’s announcement that she’s stepping down from the BBC Radio 2 Breakfast Show has sparked a heated reaction from listeners, with many slamming the decision over her replacement.
On Tuesday, November 19, Zoe, 53, revealed she will be leaving the early morning slot in a scripted message to fans. Shortly after, it was confirmed that Scott Mills, a familiar voice on BBC Radio for over 20 years, will take over the coveted position.
In a statement following the announcement, Scott said: “Zoe and I have been such good friends now for over 25 years and have spent much of that time as part of the same radio family here at Radio 2 and also on Radio 1.
“She’s done an incredible job on this show over the past six years, and I am beyond excited to be handed the baton.”
He continued: “It feels ever since recording my first shows as a kid for an audience of one, my mum, all roads since have led to this amazing opportunity.
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“It really is a lifelong dream come true to follow in the footsteps of Sir Terry, Chris and Zoe to be the new presenter of the Radio 2 Breakfast Show.”
Zoe also voiced her support for his appointment, saying: “Scott and I go way back to our Radio 1 days, when he was doing early mornings before me.
“He’s been a close friend for years, and I’m beyond thrilled it’s him taking over the Breakfast Show. “Breakfast has always been his dream, and what a year he’s had - from racing around the world to his beautiful wedding to Sam.
“He’s not only a blooming brilliant producer but one of the best in radio. I can’t wait to tune in on the school run!” Despite her glowing endorsement, fans took to social media to vent their frustration.
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One angry listener wrote on X: “Scott Mills?? That’s me off the breakfast show.” Another fumed: “O NO, and then it’s Bloody SCOTT MILLS! Off to Greatest Hits Radio then!”
A third declared: “That’s me switching off The Breakfast Show forever! What is it with Scott Mills? Dread to think who’s taking over the Afternoon Show. It couldn’t get any worse though... @BBCRadio2.”
However, not everyone was unhappy. Some fans welcomed the change, with one writing: “Brilliant news to hear that @scott_mills will be taking over the @BBCRadio2 breakfast show when Zoe Ball moves on to the next chapter of her life.”
Zoe's decision to step away from the morning show comes after she sparked concern after taking a mysterious six-week absence.
In September, she returned to the airwaves with business as usual as she offered fans a lively welcome back before she asked them: "What have I missed?"
The mum-of-two also extended her thanks to her colleague, icluding Scott for covering her shows during her break.
She gushed: "Just wanted to say a thank you to Scott for looking after the show and of course Spoony for looking after Scott's show.
"He was supposed to be going on holiday DJing around the world. He had to change all his plans so thank you boys and thank you everyone for being so supportive. Lots of you sent so many messages from listeners that tehy meant the world so I thank you to all your gorgeous ones."
