Zoe Ball is returning to daily radio as she joins Greatest Hits Radio to host a new weekday afternoon programme.
The broadcaster will present Zoe Ball in the Afternoon from 1pm to 4 pm every weekday, beginning on 7 September.
It marks her first daily radio show since leaving the Radio 2 Breakfast Show and places her between former Radio 2 colleagues Ken Bruce and Simon Mayo in the station’s daytime schedule.
Zoe said radio had always held a special place in her heart and that the timing felt right to return to a daily show.
“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,” she said. “I’ve missed it and this felt like the right time to begin a new chapter with Greatest Hits Radio. As a station, 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.”
The new show will feature celebrity guests, conversations with listeners and regular features, including Something for the Weekend every Friday. Alongside her weekday show, Zoe will continue to co host the Dig It podcast with Jo Whiley.
Gary Stein, Director of Audio for Bauer Media Audio UK, described Zoe as one of Britain’s best loved broadcasters and said her connection with audiences and passion for music made her a perfect fit for the station.
“Zoe is one of the UK’s most talented and best-loved broadcasters. She has an extraordinary ability to connect with audiences, a real passion for great music and we’re delighted she’s chosen to join Greatest Hits Radio,” he said.
The announcement also brings other changes to the Greatest Hits Radio schedule from September. Kate Thornton will launch a new Saturday evening programme while continuing to present UK Pop 40 on Sundays. Claire Sturgess will also take over the weekend breakfast show every Saturday and Sunday morning.
Kate Thornton welcomed the news, saying: “Zoe’s an incredible signing, an incredible broadcaster and a good friend. I’ll be first in line to welcome her to the Greatest Hits Family and I’m really looking forward to working alongside her!”
Greatest Hits Radio Content Director Andy Ashton said the team had already begun working with Zoe on the new programme and was looking forward to welcoming listeners when she starts on 7 September.
The news that Zoe is joining Greatest Hits Radio was also accompanied by a video reveal showing the moment when the dream team of Zoe, Ken Bruce and Simon Mayo first came together:
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