Zoe Ball in ‘tearful’ shock appearance on BBC Radio 2 breakfast show following emotional exit
Scott Mills kicked off his first day hosting the BBC Radio 2 Breakfast Show with an emotional surprise message from his predecessor Zoe Ball, who admitted getting tearful with pride over his new role.
Ball, who departed the show in December after nearly six years, made an unexpected appearance during Mills’ inaugural Monday broadcast to share her excitement.
Mills pledged to “give it absolutely everything” as he stepped into one of British radio’s most prestigious slots at 6.30am on Monday.
However, the 51-year-old was left emotional after the beloved former host left a surprise voice message for him during the show.
“Hello you, it’s me Zoe. I think I’m more excited about your first show than you will be right now,” Ball said to Mills.
The 54-year-old broadcaster couldn’t contain her emotions as she addressed her successor.
“I keep getting really tearful. I’m so proud of you, I just need you to know that,” she continued.
Ball, who made history as the first woman to host the breakfast slot full-time, added: “You are so born to do this.”
After hearing the heartwarming encouragement, Mills outlined his vision for the show which centred around his mission to lift listeners’ spirits each morning.
“The aim here is to make you smile, to bring up your mood, to make you shoulder and head dance in bed, or in the shower, or in the car, or in the kitchen,” he told his audience.
He encouraged listeners to be part of the programme, saying: “If you could make me part of your morning routine, it would honestly mean so much because, believe me, I’m going to give it absolutely everything I’ve got.”
Mills’ first show was marked by several other celebratory moments, including a message from Davina McCall who declared: “Scott, it’s Davina, oh my goodness you are amazing!”
In a unique tribute, Stockport railway station was temporarily renamed ‘Scottport’, with staff working through the night to change signage and information screens.
Following his opening track ‘Rock DJ’ by Robbie Williams, Mills exclaimed: “This might be the best day of my life, apart from getting married.”
During her final broadcast, she reflected on the “special intimate relationship” with her audience, saying: “It’s been a real privilege to keep you company every morning.”
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“We’re all pretending we’re going to be OK, that the emotion isn’t getting to us – but it’s definitely getting to us. So hold tight!” she told her audience.
The popular broadcaster is set to return to Radio 2 later this year with a brand new programme, with further details expected to be announced soon.