Scott Mills has opened up about his emotional reaction upon learning that he would be taking over as host of the Radio 2 Breakfast Show. The 51-year-old radio veteran will begin hosting the prestigious time slot on Monday, following Zoe Ball’s departure last year. Reflecting on the moment he received the news, Scott admitted, “I cried in my dressing gown. I fully sobbed.” Mills, whose previous 2pm to 4pm weekday slot will be taken over by Trevor Nelson, expressed the deep emotional significance of landing what he describes as his “dream job.”
Scott Mills also shared that the news was bittersweet, as it prompted him to reflect on his 35-year career in radio. He confessed, “Once I’d calmed down from the sobbing, I was kind of having a real reflective moment.” He recalled a time when he felt sad about not landing the Radio 1 Breakfast Show but now sees it as a turning point that led him to where he is today. Mills noted that he’s receiving messages from listeners, particularly those in their 50s, who find inspiration in his success. “It’s encouraging for me to see that someone like you is absolutely flying and doing the best they have ever done at your time of life,” he said, admitting that he never expected this opportunity to come his way.
Zoe Ball hosted her final Radio 2 Breakfast Show last month, leaving her in tears after a heartfelt message from her son Woody. The 54-year-old DJ, who had been at the helm for six years, announced her departure to focus on family. During her emotional final broadcast, production staff surprised her with a message from Woody, 24, whom she shares with ex-husband Norman Cook (Fatboy Slim).
Woody’s message read: “Hey mum, you’ve done such an amazing job on the Breakfast Show, and I just wanted to thank you for making everyone’s mornings a bit more magic. Here’s to a healthier sleeping schedule. Love, Woody.”
Ball was visibly moved and choked back tears as she introduced the next song, “Do I Love You (Indeed I Do)” by Frank Wilson, dedicating it to her family and listeners. She closed her final show with a message of empowerment, saying: “Remember, girls, you can do anything.”
Zoe Ball’s farewell message on her final Radio 2 Breakfast Show was both emotional and heartfelt. She described her time on the show as a “real privilege” and expressed gratitude for the “special, intimate relationship” she had built with her listeners. Reflecting on her journey, she praised the opportunity to follow in the footsteps of iconic hosts like Terry Wogan and Chris Evans, and shared how special it was to be the first woman to host the Breakfast Show.
Ball continued: “Remember, girls, you can do anything,” and thanked her diverse listeners—whether they tuned in alone, as families, or during various activities like commutes or dog walks. She highlighted the deep connection they shared, calling it a “special, intimate relationship.”
She fondly recalled the fun, laughter, and shared moments of her time hosting, before wishing Scott Mills well as he takes over. Quoting Paul Williams’ song, she added: “You give a little love and it all comes back to you,” acknowledging the love she had felt from her audience throughout her tenure. With one last affectionate sign-off, she said: “Take care of yourselves, lovely peeps, my top cats.”#newsafro_
