Sara Cox has officially been named the new host of the weekday Breakfast Show on BBC Radio 2, replacing Scott Mills in one of the most high-profile roles in British broadcasting. The announcement comes just weeks after Mills, 53, was dismissed from the BBC following allegations of serious sexual offences, although no charges were ultimately brought after a previous investigation.
As the news broke, Mills was seen out walking his dog with his husband Sam Vaughn near their Hertfordshire home, appearing subdued at the very moment his longtime friend stepped into the role he once held. Cox and Mills have shared a close bond for nearly three decades, having started their careers at Radio 1 within a year of each other in the late 1990s, with their friendship extending beyond the studio — including Cox attending Mills’ wedding in Barcelona in 2024.
Now 51, Cox will move from her popular Teatime slot to take over Breakfast later this summer, describing the opportunity as the fulfilment of a lifelong dream. She admitted there were not enough words to fully capture her emotions, but said she felt ecstatic, honoured and incredibly proud to be trusted with such an iconic show. Speaking to listeners, she revealed she was momentarily speechless when offered the role, joking that perhaps the BBC only asked her to host Breakfast to quiet her down. She added that hosting the Breakfast Show had always been her ambition, and that her energy had been waiting in the wings for the right moment.
Despite her excitement, Cox became emotional when reflecting on her seven years presenting the Teatime show, calling it the most golden period of her 30-year career. She credited her listeners for making it so special and even humorously urged them to join her in the mornings, joking she would send them all £5 and a clipper card if they did.
Helen Thomas, Head of Radio 2, praised Cox as the perfect choice for the role, highlighting her warmth, humour and natural connection with audiences. She noted that Cox had already proven herself in the Breakfast slot on previous occasions and expressed confidence that she would bring energy and familiarity to morning listeners. She also pointed to Cox’s charity achievements, including raising £11.5 million for Children in Need, as evidence of her wide appeal and dedication.
The news sparked an outpouring of support from fellow broadcasters and celebrities, with Denise Van Outen calling the appointment amazing, Lauren Laverne declaring it had to be her, and others such as Dan Walker and Angela Scanlon also sharing their congratulations.
Meanwhile, the controversy surrounding Mills’ departure continues to loom large. The BBC confirmed it had been aware of a police investigation dating back to 2017, which concluded in 2019 without charges due to insufficient evidence. In a statement, Mills said he had fully cooperated with authorities and confirmed the case did not meet the threshold for prosecution. He thanked those who had supported him and asked for privacy, noting the allegations relate to events from nearly 30 years ago.
Sources close to Mills have described him as one of the nicest figures in the industry and revealed growing concern for his mental wellbeing, adding that his husband has been a vital source of support during what is said to be an incredibly difficult time.
