Zoe Ball’s emotional goodbye to Radio 2 friends who ‘held me up at my lowest’

What Did You Miss Out On?

Zoe Ball expressed her gratitude to her Radio 2 teammates for supporting her "in a very real way during my toughest times" during a heartfelt speech at the end of her last breakfast show.

The host, who will be passing the show to Scott Mills starting in January, also honored her Radio 2 colleagues and referred to Jo Whiley as "my inspiration."

Ball expressed her gratitude to her audience, noting that hosting the morning show created a "unique and personal bond." She emphasized that she always appreciates this connection. Meanwhile, celebrities like Kylie Minogue and David Tennant shared their good wishes.

Understanding The What, How, And Why

Zoe Ball has stepped away from the Breakfast Show after serving as its host for six years. (BBC)

Zoe Ball shared a heartfelt moment with her audience as she wrapped up her final BBC Radio 2 Breakfast Show before Scott Mills steps in next January.

Ball, who revealed last month that she would be leaving the show after six years, was emotional on several occasions during the broadcast. She delivered a touching thank-you message to her colleagues and audience, expressing gratitude for the support she received from her Radio 2 friends during her toughest moments.

Expressing her gratitude to all the producers and team members at the station, she remarked, "They are truly remarkable individuals. They are incredibly intelligent, funny, adventurous, courageous, and have taught me so much. They have supported me, especially during my toughest times. I love each and every one of you, and I'm really going to miss you all. Keep shining bright, you wonderful stars."

Learn more about Zoe Ball.

Zoe Ball bids farewell to her last show on Radio 2: "I hope we have brought some brightness to those who needed it" (PA Media, 2 min read)

Zoe Ball shares messages from David Tennant and Kylie Minogue during the final episode (PA Media, 4-minute read)

Zoe Ball shares that she has been diagnosed with a jaw issue (BANG Showbiz, 2 min read)

Zoe Ball assured her audience that Scott Mills was more than capable of taking care of them. (PA Images)

In March, Ball stepped back from her work in the studio when her mother, Julia Peckham, was diagnosed with cancer. She dedicated her time to taking care of her. During this period, Gaby Roslin kindly took over Ball's breakfast show duties. Sadly, Ball's mother passed away in April, and the presenter expressed her sorrow by saying, "Sleep tight, dear Mama."

Last month, Ball revealed that she has been diagnosed with a painful jaw issue that frequently leaves her waking up with headaches. In a post on Instagram, she mentioned, "I suffer from TMJ and often start my day with terrible headaches caused by tension and clenching my jaw."

Ball started her speech by expressing her emotions: "I’m really feeling a lot today. Lee mentioned on Instagram that it feels like when a friend relocates, and I totally understand that sentiment. But I assure you, I’m not going to be far away."

In honoring those who have stood by her, she expressed, "I want to especially mention my children, Woody and Nell, who bring me joy and amazement every single day. Being their mother is the greatest thing that has ever happened to me."

Ball expressed her appreciation for everyone, from her colleagues at the station to the security personnel and cleaning staff. However, she made sure to highlight her friend Jo (Wiley), saying, "I want to give a special mention to Jo. Her show is my absolute favorite. She's been an amazing friend to me in countless ways. Jo, continue to support fantastic music; you're a wonderful person, a great friend, and an incredible mother. You inspire me."

Starting in January, Scott Mills will take over from Zoe Ball. (PA)

She reflected on her experience hosting Breakfast, saying, "It's really exciting to be the first woman to take on this role, and I know I won’t be the last. Just remember, girls, you can achieve anything!"

In her conversation with the audience, she expressed: "It’s truly an honor to be here with you during your morning routines. You’re doing your thing, and I’m here just chatting with a friend. The connection we have is unique and meaningful. I really appreciate that."

"I really appreciate you sharing your experiences of love and heartbreak, your exciting baby news, and the moments when your kids have moved out. We've laughed a lot together, shed a few tears, enjoyed plenty of fun, sung some songs, and even danced. Here’s to always having dancing in our lives!"

Ball also introduced her successor, stating: "You're in good hands with Scott for the new year. He's one of the best. You'll have a great time with him. I'll be back in the spring, making appearances on Radio 2 for some new experiences."

She concluded by saying, "Just like the song goes, when you spread a little love, it eventually comes back to you. I've definitely experienced that love from all of you. I consider myself fortunate to be here. I'm sending tons of love to you and your loved ones this Christmas. It has truly been a memorable time. Take care, sending my love to you, my favorite people."

Earlier in the program, Ball became emotional as she expressed, "Everything's bound to go awry because I can't see the buttons through my overwhelming tears. We've already shed some tears. This morning feels a bit confusing for us, doesn't it? I walked in and now I can't seem to recall how to press the button."

"We're all acting like we're fine, like the feelings aren't affecting us - but in reality, they really are. So hang in there!"

She also shared with her news team, "We've experienced the highs and lows of life together—five prime ministers and a pandemic. We've gone through so much."

Who Honored Zoe Ball On The Breakfast Show?

Kylie Minogue expressed her gratitude to Zoe Ball for being there for her. (WireImage)

Kylie Minogue extended her warm wishes, saying, “Hey Zoe, it’s Kylie. I really appreciate the amazing six years we've had. The whole country adores you, and I do too. Every time I've had the chance to visit with you, it's been such a great time.”

"You’ve played a significant role in some of my most cherished moments over the past six years. In 2019, you encouraged me before my legends performance at Glastonbury, you joined me during the disco vibe in 2020, and you were the very first person in the world to spin 'Padam Padam,' sparking the phenomenon we now call the 'Padamic.'"

"We've spent so many wonderful moments in the studio together—just you, me, and your amazing production team. Big thanks to them! All of this has been thanks to you, Zoe. You're incredible, and we're really going to miss you. But it's time to say goodbye to that morning alarm—you served us well for six years, but it's time to move on. Zoe, I wish you all the love, success, happiness, and everything else your heart desires in this new chapter. We love you!"

David Tennant said, “Hi Zoe – Dame Zoe Ball – it’s David Tennant speaking from London. You've been truly incredible over the past six years.”

Woody Cook, the presenter's son, also shared a message for her. (PA Images)

"Oh my goodness, the nation is really going to feel your absence – you're the absolute best breakfast companion. I'm so grateful to have been able to join your show several times and tease you a bit."

"Who could ever forget the time you made me perform a dramatic reading of 'Man! I Feel Like A Woman!' right in front of Shania Twain? I know I can’t! And Shania hasn’t forgotten either; she even sent me a hat based on that unforgettable moment. Alright, let’s wrap this up with three big karaoke classics in the last 7.33 (song feature). Let’s go, Zoe! Much love to you, Zoe Ball! See you later!"

Alessia Russo, an England footballer, expressed her sadness about the departure from Radio 2, saying: “I’m sorry to hear you’re moving on, but I want to extend a huge thank you for all the support you’ve provided to the Lionesses during your time on the breakfast show. Your encouragement meant a lot, especially during our Euro victory in 2022 and last year’s journey to the World Cup final. Wishing you the best for what’s ahead, and I hope to catch you at another game soon!”

Cher, Oti Mabuse, and Basil Brush also shared their words of encouragement, alongside Ball's son Woody, who expressed, "Thank you for bringing joy to our mornings. Here’s to a better sleep routine!"

Listeners expressed how much they will miss Ball, with one person writing on X: "Zoe Ball, you have been amazing; I will miss you in the mornings." Another listener chimed in with: "Wishing you all the best, Zoe Ball, and thank you for six wonderful years of listening to @BBCRadio2."

One person expressed on Instagram: "It's really disappointing not to have Zoe's conversations in the mornings anymore!" Another fan chimed in: "I'm going to miss you, Zoe! You had me tearing up by the time you wrapped up. Best wishes for whatever comes next! Xx"

A listener expressed: "Wishing you all the best, Zoe! Take care of yourself! I'm really going to miss you! xx"

Some listeners sent her messages during the broadcast, and one young fan shared that she had been motivated to begin her own journey in radio by volunteering at a hospital station, inspired by the DJ’s example.

You can now listen to Zoe Ball's last breakfast show on BBC Sounds.