Sara Cox replaces Scott Mills on Radio 2 breakfast show

The BBC has revealed that Sara Cox will take over the Radio 2 breakfast show, succeeding Scott Mills. Cox, hailing from Bolton, has been the host of the station’s teatime programme since 2019. In a statement, she expressed her enthusiasm, stating,

“I’m ecstatic, honoured, and incredibly chuffed to be stepping into the station’s flagship slot.”

She added,

“Hosting the breakfast show has been a dream since my Radio 2 debut—it’s like a full circle moment for me.”

Cox will be joined by a new host for the teatime slot, which the BBC plans to announce soon. She reflected on her career, saying,

“I’ve enjoyed the most glorious seven years of my broadcasting career on teatime. I’m excited to welcome my listeners to the breakfast show, where I’ll bring the same energy, music, and my usual brand of nonsense—plus some superstar guests.”

The 51-year-old also teased her upcoming role,

“I can’t wait to wake the nation up with the biggest, most fun breakfast show ever.”

Since Scott Mills’ departure in late March, Gary Davies has been temporarily leading the breakfast show. Mills was dismissed following new police investigation details emerging in recent weeks. The inquiry focused on alleged historic sexual offences from 1997 to 2000, involving a boy under 16. Though he fully cooperated with the investigation, no criminal charges were filed due to insufficient evidence. The BBC became aware of the case in 2017, but updated information led to his removal on 27 March.

Mills’ statement acknowledged his exit,

“Since the allegations date back nearly 30 years and the police investigation concluded seven years ago, I hope the public and media will respect my decision to avoid further comment.”

The breakfast show, a high-profile role in British radio, is not the station’s most-listened-to programme. That distinction belongs to the mid-morning show, hosted by Vernon Kay, which has held the UK’s top radio audience since 2019.

Cox’s career includes hosting shows like Sounds of the 80s and the weekday late-night programme. She also served as a regular stand-in for the breakfast show during Chris Evans’ time at the station. Before joining Radio 2, she was a presenter on MTV and Channel 4’s The Big Breakfast. Her TV work spans programmes such as The Great Pottery Throw Down and Between The Covers. Notably, she raised £11.5 million for Children in Need by running marathons over five days last year.

Radio 2’s longest-serving host was Sir Terry Wogan, who held the role for over 28 years. Cox will become the station’s second female breakfast presenter after Zoe Ball. Helen Thomas, the station’s chief, praised Cox’s appointment, stating,

“Sara is adored by her millions of listeners at teatime. I’m confident she’ll build a strong connection with the breakfast audience and energise the nation every morning with her warmth and humour.”

The BBC’s announcement marks a significant shift in its morning programming lineup.