Zoe Ball is officially back where many fans believe she belongs.
After months of speculation about her next career move—and following reports that she was left heartbroken after missing out on hosting Strictly Come Dancing—the beloved broadcaster has announced a major new role that marks her full-time return to weekday radio.
A Fresh Start on Greatest Hits Radio
The 55-year-old presenter has signed with Greatest Hits Radio, where she will host a brand-new weekday programme, Zoe Ball In The Afternoon, airing Monday to Friday from 1pm to 4pm.
The show will officially launch on September 7, giving Zoe her first regular weekday radio slot since stepping away from BBC Radio 2’s Breakfast Show in 2024.
For many listeners, it’s the comeback they’ve been waiting for.
A New Beginning After a Difficult Year
The announcement comes just weeks after Zoe openly admitted she had been dealing with feelings of “grief and rejection.”
Those emotions reportedly followed her failure to land a presenting role on the new series of Strictly Come Dancing.
Zoe had long been considered a natural candidate after previously hosting the popular companion programme Strictly: It Takes Two, and reports suggested she was among the names linked with replacing departing hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman.
Instead, the BBC confirmed a completely new presenting lineup, with Emma Willis, Josh Widdicombe, and Johannes Radebe taking over hosting duties.
While many fans expressed disappointment that Zoe wasn’t chosen, her latest career move signals she’s looking firmly ahead rather than dwelling on the setback.
“I’ve Missed Radio”
Speaking about joining Greatest Hits Radio, Zoe couldn’t hide her excitement.
“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.”
She also praised her new employer, saying:
“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.”
What Can Listeners Expect?
The new afternoon programme promises much more than just music.
According to the station, the show will feature:
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Celebrity interviews
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Conversations with listeners
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Feel-good stories
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Regular entertainment features
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A weekly Friday segment called Something for the Weekend
The aim is to create an upbeat afternoon show packed with music, laughter, and audience interaction.
Bauer Media Welcomes One of Britain’s Best-Loved Broadcasters
Gary Stein, Director of Audio for Bauer Media Audio UK, described Zoe’s arrival as a huge moment for the station.
He praised her as:
“One of the UK’s most talented and best-loved broadcasters.”
