There’s no sign of rivalry between Kate Thornton and Zoe Ball—only admiration.
After Greatest Hits Radio confirmed that Zoe Ball will take over the station’s popular afternoon slot, many fans wondered how Kate Thornton would react. Now, the broadcaster has addressed the change publicly, and her heartfelt response has surprised listeners.
Speaking on air, Kate made it clear she has nothing but support for her longtime friend.
“She’s a superstar broadcaster, one of the most familiar voices that the nation has,” Kate said. “So many of us have grown up alongside her, myself included, and she’s a friend of mine.”
Rather than dwelling on losing her weekday show, Kate encouraged her audience to welcome Zoe with the same warmth they had shown her over the past two years.
“I know you afternoon listeners will make her feel so welcome. As you have me over the last two years, she’s in for some great company.”
Kate then paid Zoe one of the highest compliments possible.
Zoe quit her show on BBC Radio 2Credit: Instagram
“I mean this in only good ways—she’s a GOAT. I’m really looking forward to welcoming her to the family. I’ll be the first to throw my arms around her as she comes through the door. It’s going to be fantastic to have her working alongside all of us here.”
Why Zoe Ball’s Move Is Making Headlines
Zoe Ball remains one of the biggest names in British broadcasting, so her move to Greatest Hits Radio has generated plenty of excitement.
The presenter stepped down from BBC Radio 2’s Breakfast Show in December 2024, explaining that she wanted more time with her family and a break from the demanding early-morning schedule.
Now, she’s returning to daily radio with a high-profile afternoon programme at Greatest Hits Radio—a role that many believe is the perfect fit for the popular presenter.
Reports have suggested the commercial station had been keen to sign Zoe for some time, with insiders claiming she carefully considered her next move before accepting the offer.
Kate Isn’t Leaving—She’s Starting a New Chapter
Although Zoe is taking over afternoons, Kate Thornton isn’t saying goodbye to Greatest Hits Radio.
Instead, she’ll remain part of the station with a brand-new weekend programme, marking the start of a fresh chapter in her broadcasting career.
Her gracious response has also won praise from fans, with many applauding the way she publicly celebrated Zoe’s arrival rather than treating the schedule shake-up as a rivalry.
As Zoe prepares to begin her new role, it’s clear that Greatest Hits Radio is welcoming one of the UK’s most recognisable voices—with Kate Thornton leading the applause.
