Television favourite Emma Willis has candidly shared her feelings of anxiety as she prepares to step into a major new broadcasting role. The 49-year-old presenter is gearing up to host the BBC Radio 2 Saturday lunchtime programme, taking over the slot long held by the departing Zoe Ball.
A Daunting Task For The TV Star
Appearing on BBC's The One Show on Tuesday, January 12, Willis was questioned by hosts Roman Kemp and Clara Amfo about the impending challenge. Kemp directly addressed the obvious pressure, asking if she felt nervous about following in Ball's footsteps.
"I'm super excited but I'm a bit nervous because it's Zoe Ball," Emma confessed. She quickly reframed her thinking, adding, "I just have to think it's not taking over her show, let's not think of it like that because that would terrify me."
With laughter in the studio, Roman Kemp suggested she was already overthinking the situation. Willis then revealed that Zoe Ball herself had sent a reassuring message, stating "it's going to be great, you're going to be fine." Despite this vote of confidence, Willis acknowledged the weight of public affection for her predecessor, admitting, "People love Zoe don't they? So there is that bit of pressure."
What Listeners Can Expect From The New Show
Willis's new programme will air every Saturday afternoon from 1pm to 3pm. The format promises engaging conversations with special guests and listeners, paired with a meticulously chosen playlist of high-quality music. "It is a lovely slot one till three - I'm super excited," said Willis. "I have been on Radio 2 for a couple of years so it's familiar territory but I just want it to be all about the listeners."
Her radio credentials are well established. For six years, she co-hosted Sunday mornings on Heart Radio with Stephen Mulhern. Since 2019, she has been a regular stand-in presenter on Radio 2, covering for well-known hosts including Sara Cox, Claudia Winkleman, and Romesh Ranganathan.
Radio 2 Boss Extends A Warm Welcome
Helen Thomas, Head of Radio 2, expressed her delight at Willis joining the station's weekend lineup. "Emma is one of the UK's most popular broadcasters, so I'm thrilled that she's joining the all-star Radio 2 family of presenters," Thomas said. "I'm certain that our loyal listeners will welcome her with open arms."
She added that she cannot wait to hear Emma's show as part of the station's 'Superstar Saturday' schedule, which also features presenters like Tony Blackburn, Dermot O'Leary, Rylan, and Fearne Cotton. The move follows Zoe Ball's announcement last month that she would be leaving her Radio 2 show.
Despite her nerves, Emma Willis is poised to bring her own distinctive style to the coveted Saturday afternoon slot, aiming to connect with the Radio 2 audience and make the show her own.
