Sara Cox is set to begin her tenure as the host of the BBC Radio 2 Breakfast Show, taking over the coveted slot following the dismissal of Scott Mills. Cox, who has established herself as a prominent voice in British broadcasting, expressed confidence in her new role, stating, "It's huge, but I'm ready. I'm not nervous because I know I can do a good job." She noted her extensive experience, saying, "I've been doing radio for 28 years now."
Cox's journey to this career pinnacle began far from the spotlight, growing up above a pub in Bolton. Her early career took an unexpected turn into modeling after A-levels, leading her to work with agencies in Manchester and internationally, including stints in New York, Milan, and Seoul. During her modeling days, she also worked as a barmaid. Her infectious personality eventually led her to television, landing her first job presenting "The Girlie Show" on Channel 4 in 1996.
From "Ladette" to Radio Star
In the late 1990s, Cox became associated with the "ladette" culture, a term she has since expressed disliking. Her television career expanded to include hosting "The Big Breakfast." In 1999, she joined BBC Radio 1, initially co-hosting "The Surgery" and a Saturday lunchtime show. Within three months, she was elevated to the Radio 1 Breakfast Show, replacing Zoe Ball.
Her initial period at Radio 1 saw an increase in listenership, but by August 2002, figures had declined. Reports surfaced in 2003 that she was given a deadline to improve ratings, and shortly thereafter, Chris Moyles was announced as her replacement. Cox then moved to the afternoon drivetime slot.
Career Reassessment and Radio 2
Following the birth of her first child, Lola, in 2004, the drivetime slot was given to Scott Mills, who had been covering her maternity leave. Cox found herself in a weekend afternoon slot upon her return. While initially disappointed by the career shift, she reflected that these quieter periods allowed her to focus on raising her children. She later married Ben Cyzer and had two more children, Isaac and Renee.
Facing a perceived lull in her career, Cox sought advice from industry figures, including Davina McCall and Jonathan Ross. This led her to approach BBC Radio 2, where she was offered the drivetime slot. Now, at 51, she is taking on the Radio 2 Breakfast Show.
Cox has chosen not to comment on the allegations that led to Scott Mills' dismissal, stating, "I completely understand why you're asking but I know no more than you do about the whole thing." Mills was dismissed after allegations of serious sexual offenses against a teenage boy under 16 came to light. Cox and Mills have a long-standing professional relationship, having both started at Radio 1 within a year of each other in the late 1990s.