A BBC insider has revealed that the prolonged absence of popular TV presenter and radio DJ Zoe Ball from the airwaves remains shrouded in mystery. Zoe, one of the highest-paid stars at the corporation, has been off air for five weeks now. The BBC recently announced that the 53-year-old host would be returning to the Radio 2 Breakfast Show later this month. Zoe last appeared on The Zoe Ball Breakfast Show on August 8 before taking a break, with Gaby Roslin and Scott Mills stepping in as temporary hosts.
Zoe Ball took over the morning programme in 2019 from Chris Evans, who moved to Virgin Radio. She made history as the first female host of the Radio 1 Breakfast Show from 1998 to 2000. Zoe also co-hosted Live & Kicking on BBC and has been a familiar face on Strictly Come Dancing: It Takes Two and ITV’s Mamma Mia! I Have A Dream. A source told MailOnline that the reason behind Zoe’s extended absence has not been disclosed, stating, “nobody knows what has happened.” Expressing concern, the insider added, “We hope everything is okay. Zoe is so loved at the BBC so to not have her around is really noticeable.”
Earlier this year, Zoe took time off due to personal challenges, including the loss of her mother in April and undergoing emergency dental surgery. Despite facing these hardships, Zoe’s professionalism and warmth have endeared her to audiences throughout her career. Fans of the beloved presenter eagerly anticipate her return to the Radio 2 Breakfast Show. Stay tuned for updates on Zoe Ball’s comeback as details unfold in the coming weeks.