Angela Scanlon has been confirmed as the new host of BBC Radio 2’s drivetime programme, taking over from Sara Cox, who has transitioned to the breakfast slot. The Irish broadcaster will lead the 16:00-19:00 weekday show beginning in November.
Scanlon described the opportunity as “properly exciting,” noting the unique appeal of millions of listeners with varied routines joining the same broadcast for a few hours. “I want all of it: the stories, the opinions, the chaos, the tiny triumphs and the things you probably shouldn’t admit on national radio,” she said, envisioning herself accompanying audiences on school runs, commutes, or while cooking.
The broadcaster first filled in for Cox after the original host left the drivetime slot in May. She joined a roster of guest presenters that included Joel Dommett, Jason Manford, Ellie Taylor, Alex Jones, and Gary Davies. Previously, Scanlon hosted a Sunday early morning show on the station from 2018 to 2021.
Radio 2 controller Helen Thomas praised Scanlon as “incredibly warm and quick witted,” highlighting her popularity with the station’s audience during the summer cover. Thomas emphasized the importance of the drivetime slot in setting a positive tone for listeners heading home and welcomed Scanlon as the right person to take up the reins.
Scanlon is widely recognized for her work on programmes such as The One Show, This Morning, Your Home Made Perfect, and The Apprentice: Unfinished Business. She also competed on Strictly Come Dancing in 2023 and currently co-hosts the Get A Grip podcast with Vicky Pattison. Additionally, she presented the Virgin Radio weekend breakfast show after Graham Norton’s departure in 2024.
In related lineup changes, Radio 2 announced that Ben Earle will take over the weekly country music programme following the retirement of Bob Harris. Earle, a member of the British country group The Shires, has presented a similar show on Absolute Radio Country for five years. Harris, known as “Whispering” Bob, stepped down after 27 years at the station, having announced his departure in June due to prostate cancer that had spread to his spine.
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