Sara Cox replaces Scott Mills after BBC sacking linked to conduct allegations

Sara Cox will take over the flagship breakfast show on BBC Radio 2, replacing Scott Mills following his dismissal over allegations relating to his personal conduct.

The announcement marks a major shift for the station, coming at a time when the BBC faces mounting scrutiny over its handling of past concerns involving Mills. The broadcaster has confirmed it was first made aware of a police investigation into him in 2017, which related to allegations of sexual abuse. No charges were brought at the time, and Mills continued in his role for several years afterwards.

However, last month the BBC terminated his contract, citing its “culture and values”. The corporation has not disclosed what new information led to that decision, leaving unanswered questions about the timeline of events and internal awareness.

Mills had only taken over the breakfast programme in 2025, following the departure of long-serving host Zoe Ball. His tenure in the role proved short-lived, despite the show’s strong performance in audience figures.

Industry data published earlier this year showed that Radio 2 remained the most popular radio station in the UK. Mills’s breakfast show was the most listened-to in the country, attracting a weekly audience of 6.47 million between October and December 2025.

Cox, who currently hosts the station’s teatime programme, will move into the breakfast slot this summer. Her existing show, which airs from 4pm to 7pm, has been a central part of her recent career.

Reacting to the announcement, Cox described her new role as a significant personal milestone. She said she felt “ecstatic, honoured and incredibly chuffed” to be entrusted with what she called an iconic programme. Hosting the breakfast show, she added, had been a long-standing ambition since joining the station.

She also reflected on her time in the afternoon slot, describing it as a “glorious” period in her career. Cox thanked her listeners and expressed hope that they would follow her into the morning schedule. She said she looked forward to bringing music, humour and guest appearances to the programme.

The BBC has expressed confidence in her appointment. Helen Thomas, head of Radio 2, said Cox was widely loved by listeners and had already demonstrated her ability to connect with audiences during previous appearances in the breakfast slot. Thomas said she expected Cox to bring warmth and energy to mornings on the station.

Meanwhile, Mills has previously addressed the allegations against him, noting that the investigation related to claims dating back nearly 30 years. He emphasised that the police inquiry concluded seven years ago without charges. In a statement, he asked for privacy and thanked colleagues, friends and listeners for their support.

The situation continues to raise questions for the BBC, particularly around what information was known internally and how it was handled over time. The corporation has faced increasing pressure to provide clarity on the matter, as scrutiny over its decision-making process intensifies.

As the station prepares for a new chapter, Cox’s move represents both continuity and change. While she brings an established presence and loyal audience, the circumstances surrounding her predecessor’s departure cast a shadow over the transition.

The breakfast show remains a cornerstone of Radio 2’s schedule, and all eyes will be on how the programme evolves under its new host.