Get ready for a major shake-up in your Saturday afternoons! BBC Radio 2 is welcoming a new voice to its lineup, and it’s none other than the charismatic Emma Willis. Starting January 2026, Emma will take over the coveted Saturday lunchtime slot (1-3pm), bringing her signature charm and energy to the airwaves. But here’s where it gets exciting: Emma isn’t just stepping into any role—she’s following in the footsteps of the beloved Zoe Ball, who’s passing the baton after years of keeping weekends lively. Will Emma’s style match Zoe’s? Only time will tell, but one thing’s for sure—this transition is already buzzing with anticipation.
Emma, a broadcasting powerhouse with over two decades of experience, is no stranger to the mic. From her six-year stint co-hosting Sunday mornings on Heart Radio with Stephen Mulhern to her regular appearances on BBC Radio 2, she’s proven herself as a versatile and trusted voice. Since 2019, she’s been a familiar presence on the station, filling in for Sara Cox, Claudia Winkleman, and Romesh Ranganathan, and even guesting on shows like Sounds of the 90s with Fearne Cotton. Now, she’s ready to make the slot her own, sandwiched between Romesh and Rylan—a pairing she jokingly calls a ‘Romesh and Rylan sandwich.’
‘I’m a huge fan of Radio 2, so joining the family is a dream come true,’ Emma gushed. ‘Following Zoe, someone I admire so much, is both an honor and a challenge. I can’t wait to spend my Saturdays with the Radio 2 audience, chatting with special guests, and playing the best music out there.’
But here’s where it gets controversial: Is Emma’s style too different from Zoe’s? While Zoe’s warm and quirky humor has been a staple, Emma brings a more polished, conversational approach. Will listeners embrace the change, or will they long for Zoe’s unique flair? Let us know your thoughts in the comments!
Helen Thomas, Head of Radio 2, is confident Emma will fit right in. ‘Emma is one of the UK’s most popular broadcasters, and I’m thrilled she’s joining our all-star lineup,’ she said. ‘Our listeners will welcome her with open arms, and I can’t wait to hear her show as part of our Superstar Saturday schedule, alongside Tony Blackburn, Dermot O’Leary, and more.’
Meanwhile, Zoe Ball isn’t stepping away entirely. Her final Saturday lunchtime show airs on December 20, but she’ll continue hosting specials on the station. Her first new project? A highly anticipated series of the award-winning podcast Eras for Radio 2 and BBC Sounds, focusing on the legendary career of Phil Collins. And this is the part most people miss: Zoe’s podcast isn’t just a rehash of his greatest hits—it’s an intimate, era-by-era exploration of his life, featuring rare BBC Archive footage, new interviews with fans and collaborators like Sir Bob Geldof, Robert Plant, and even Phil’s son Nic Collins. The series launches on January 19, just in time for Phil’s 75th birthday, and includes a world-exclusive interview with the man himself in the final episode.
‘Phil Collins’ music is woven into all our lives,’ Zoe reflected. ‘His songs are like time machines, full of heart, drama, and joy. Sitting down with him for such a personal conversation about music, family, and everything in between has been a dream come true.’
As for Radio 2 listeners, the fun doesn’t stop there. Over the holidays, you can catch Zoe’s specials, including Zoe Ball Meets Elaine Paige and Zoe Ball Meets Rod Stewart and Bryan Adams. And don’t forget to tune into Elaine Paige: 60 Years In Showbiz, recorded live at The London Palladium.
So, what do you think? Are you excited for Emma Willis’s new show, or will you miss Zoe Ball’s unique touch? And is Zoe’s Phil Collins podcast a must-listen for you? Let the debate begin!
