Sara Cox has been called "perfect" and the "most popular girl on the airwaves" as she opened her first Radio 2 breakfast show with "self-indulgent" songs that she denied held secret messages. Taking to the airwaves at 6:30am, Sara opened the show with 'About Damn Time' by Lizzo. Playfully, she told listeners that 'Finally' by CeCe Peniston was next, adding: "No message in the music, don't be silly." The joke continued as 'At Last' by Etta James started to play. But Sara appeared to be done with it and said: "No, come on. That's too self-indulgent." The fun music choices kept coming, as later on, she played James' 'She's A Star', and then introduced her first interview guest as Tom Hanks.
Tom Hanks Praises Sara Cox
During her show, Sara spoke to Tom Hanks, who called her the "most popular girl on the airwaves". Tom was there to promote his film, Toy Story 5. After they'd already spoken for a bit, Tom decided to introduce himself and said: "I'm here with the most popular girl on the airwaves on her new breakfast show."
Listener Reaction
Fans are already delighted with Sara's breakfast show. Under a video of her first song choices posted to Facebook, one listener said Sara was "nailing it". Another said they "loved the choice of opening songs" and a third said: "You're a super talent and perfect for the job!" Elsewhere online, fans have posted their support for Sara amid her first show. "What a joy to wake up to Sara Cox @BBCRadio2 Breakfast Show," one wrote on X. Another asked on Facebook if she could "still do the afternoon show too".
Sara's Nerves and New Format
Sara told Tom that her "knees are knocking" and that she was "nervous" as it was her first day on the "biggest breakfast show in Europe". She took over for Scott Mills, who was axed from his breakfast show as well as other BBC gigs, such as the Race Around The World podcast. His axing came after the BBC learned the victim of a police investigation into him was under 16 at the time of the alleged offences. He was never charged. BBC bosses have said Sara's new show will "feature a fresh new format, packed with all the fun and games you expect with Sara, with the listeners at the heart of the show." They added: "She will be bringing all your favourite bits from the afternoon, alongside plenty of brand-new breakfast treats to start your day. Plus, she’ll welcome some of the world’s biggest stars into her studio for exclusive chats and memorable moments."
