BBC Radio 2 presenter Zoe Ball has hosted her final Saturday afternoon programme, signing off with an emotional tribute to her loyal listeners. The broadcast on Saturday, 20 December 2025, marked the end of her weekly slot, which she announced she was leaving just one week prior.
An Emotional Farewell Filled with Festive Cheer
Ball's last show was a festive affair, packed with Christmas classics and special guests including comedian Ricky Gervais, presenter Joel Dommett, and chef Angela Hartnett. Addressing her audience directly, she gave a heartfelt goodbye. "It's just time for me to say thank you so much for listening on Saturday afternoons," she said. She also urged listeners to "look after the gorgeous Emma Willis" when she takes over in the New Year.
Before her final track, Chris Rea's 'Driving Home For Christmas', Ball expressed her "huge respect" for the support she had received, ending with "Merry Christmas, love ya!" Earlier in the show, she had opened by acknowledging it was an emotional day for BBC departures, also referencing Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman's final episode of 'Strictly Come Dancing'.
A 'Superwoman' Steps Into the Saturday Slot
The identity of Ball's successor was revealed during her announcement the previous weekend. She confirmed that television presenter Emma Willis would be taking the reins of the 1pm to 3pm slot. Ball enthusiastically endorsed her replacement, calling Willis a "superwoman" and a "gorgeous lass", welcoming her to the Radio 2 family.
In a statement, Emma Willis said she was "absolutely chuffed" to join the station and acknowledged the "very big boots" she had to fill. "I'm very much looking forward to spending my Saturday lunchtimes with the Radio 2 audience," she added, joking about being "the filling to a Romesh and Rylan sandwich", referring to the presenters of the shows before and after the slot.
Focus on Family and Wellbeing Behind the Decision
While Ball is stepping back from her regular Saturday duties, she will continue to present special programmes for Radio 2, including 'Christmas Crooners' and an 'eras show' in the new year. Her departure follows her exit from the Radio 2 breakfast show last year after nearly six years, a move she attributed to a desire to focus on her family and escape the gruelling 4am alarm calls.
Ball has been open about personal challenges affecting her wellbeing, including the passing of her mother, Julia, in April 2024, and her diagnosis with temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ), which causes headaches. Her decision to leave the breakfast show was significantly influenced by these early starts impacting her health.
According to the latest figures, Zoe Ball was the top-earning female on-air talent at the BBC in 2023/2024, with a salary between £950,000 and £954,999, making her the corporation's second highest-paid presenter overall after Gary Lineker.
