In a significant shake-up at BBC Radio 2, Sara Cox has been appointed as the new host of the station’s flagship breakfast show, succeeding Scott Mills, who was dismissed earlier this year amid allegations stemming from a historical police investigation. Cox, currently the face of the drivetime slot, expressed her excitement at the prospect of leading the breakfast programme, which she has long considered a dream role.
A New Era for Radio 2
Cox, 51, has been a familiar voice on Radio 2 since 2019, when she took over the teatime show from Simon Mayo. The Bolton native shared her elation at the announcement, stating she feels “ecstatic, honoured and incredibly chuffed” to step into the role. “It’s been a dream to host the breakfast show since I joined Radio 2,” she remarked, revealing that the opportunity feels like a full-circle moment in her career.
The transition is set to take place this summer, with the BBC indicating that details regarding her successor for the teatime slot will be revealed in due course. Opening her show on Thursday, a visibly emotional Cox admitted, “It takes quite a lot to make me speechless, but when I got asked to host the Radio 2 breakfast show, I was momentarily lost for words.”
The Shadow of Scott Mills
Cox steps into the role following the abrupt exit of Mills, who led the breakfast show for just 14 months before being let go on 27 March 2023. His dismissal was linked to new information that emerged concerning an investigation into alleged historic sexual offences involving a minor, which took place over two decades ago. Although the investigation concluded without any charges, the BBC determined that the revelations warranted Mills’ removal from the airwaves.
In a statement following his dismissal, Mills acknowledged the investigation and confirmed his full cooperation with the police. However, he chose not to delve into the specifics of the allegations, maintaining a desire for privacy regarding the matter.
Cox’s Impressive Track Record
Sara Cox is no stranger to high-profile broadcasting, having previously hosted various shows on Radio 2, including “Sounds of the 80s” and late-night programmes. Furthermore, her stint on Radio 1 in the early 2000s included a brief tenure as the breakfast show host. Beyond radio, Cox has made her mark on television, leading popular series such as “The Great Pottery Throw Down” and “Between The Covers.”
Her philanthropic efforts have also been noteworthy. Last year, she raised an impressive £11.5 million for Children in Need by completing five marathons in five days, showcasing her commitment to charitable causes alongside her broadcasting career.
Radio 2’s chief, Helen Thomas, expressed her delight at Cox’s appointment, praising her ability to connect with audiences: “Sara is adored by her millions of listeners at teatime, and having regularly deputised in the slot, I already know she’ll build a brilliant rapport with the breakfast audience.”
The Significance of the Role
Hosting the Radio 2 breakfast show is not only a prestigious appointment but also one that comes with immense responsibility. Although it is not the station’s most-listened-to programme—Vernon Kay’s mid-morning slot holds that title—the breakfast show remains a cultural cornerstone of British radio. It was famously led for over 28 years by the late Sir Terry Wogan, and more recently by Zoe Ball, making it a coveted position.
Cox will become the second female host of the breakfast show, following in the footsteps of Ball, and her appointment reflects a broader trend towards diversity and representation in broadcasting.
Why it Matters
Sara Cox’s rise to the breakfast show is emblematic of a new chapter for BBC Radio 2, especially in the wake of Scott Mills’ controversial exit. As she prepares to take the reins, listeners can expect a fresh energy and approach that could redefine the morning experience for millions. Cox’s history with the station and her vibrant personality position her well to engage audiences and navigate the challenges ahead, all while contributing to the ongoing conversation about accountability and change within the broadcasting landscape.
