Emma Willis to host new BBC Radio 2 programme as Zoe Ball steps down

Emma Willis will be taking over Zoe Ball’s show on BBC Radio 2 on Saturday lunchtimes. Zoe Ball announced today that she is leaving the program later this month.

I’m so excited! Willis is getting her own show on BBC Radio starting in January 2026! It’ll be on Saturdays from 1 to 3 PM, and apparently, she’s having a ton of amazing guests. I can’t wait to tune in!

Emma expressed her excitement about the news, saying she’s a long-time Radio 2 listener and thrilled to join the team. She feels honored to be taking over from Zoe, whom she greatly admires. Emma is really looking forward to hosting Saturday lunchtimes on Radio 2 and joked she’s happy to be part of a comedic duo with Romesh and Rylan.

For six years, Willis has co-hosted Sunday mornings on Heart Radio with Stephen Mulhern. Since 2019, she’s also become a frequent voice on Radio 2, often filling in for presenters like Sara Cox, Claudia Winkleman, and Romesh Ranganathan.

As a long-time Radio 2 listener, I was so excited to hear that Emma’s joining the team! Helen Thomas, who runs Radio 2, said Emma is a really popular broadcaster, and I totally agree. I know everyone will be thrilled to welcome her – she’s going to be a fantastic addition to the station.

I’m really excited for Emma’s new show to be included in our Superstar Saturday lineup, alongside fantastic hosts like Tony Blackburn, Dermot O’Leary, Romesh Ranganathan, Rylan, Liza Tarbuck, Gary Davies, and Fearne Cotton.

Zoe Ball will host her final regular show on December 20th, but she’ll still be back for occasional special programs throughout the year.

Zoe loved hosting her Saturday lunch show on Radio 2, especially the fun she had with the team, the listeners, and her co-hosts Romesh and Rylan. She’s thrilled that Emma will be taking over, as she’s sure Emma will bring lots of happiness and great music to the show.

Helen expressed immense gratitude to Zoe for consistently bringing joy and warmth to Saturday lunches. She’s cherished by both listeners and the Radio 2 presenting team, and will always be a valued part of the Radio 2 family.

Authors

Katelyn MensahSenior Entertainment Writer

Katelyn Mensah writes about entertainment for TopMob, covering everything from popular TV shows and reality competitions to important documentaries. Before joining TopMob, she worked at The Tab, where she focused on reality TV and celebrity news. She has a journalism degree.

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2025-12-13 22:35