Beloved broadcaster Zoe Ball has officially confirmed the true nature of her relationship with the mystery man she previously referred to as her 'lodger', ending months of playful speculation from fans.
From 'Lodger' to Lover: The Truth Revealed
In a candid new interview with The Sunday Times Style Magazine, the 55-year-old former BBC Radio 2 presenter set the record straight. While she has chosen to keep his identity private, Ball confirmed via a follow-up email that the man living with her in her Sussex home is, in fact, her new boyfriend.
This revelation comes after she first hinted at a new romance on her 'Dig It' podcast with Jo Whiley last year, where she coyly mentioned having a lodger. Her last public relationship, with construction worker Michael Reed, ended in early 2023.
Juggling Love, Work and Co-Parenting
The mother of two also spoke openly about her dynamic with ex-husband Norman Cook, the DJ known as Fatboy Slim. The pair split a decade ago after 18 years together but have maintained a strong co-parenting relationship for their son Woody, 25, and daughter Nelly, 16.
"I love that he is still out there, playing to the masses," she said of Cook. "We've been really lucky with our relationship. When he has wanted to do things, I've been able to say, 'I'll be here for that bit.'" She described the current six-month period as particularly busy, requiring careful coordination.
A Personal Quirk and Past Heartbreak
On her podcast, Ball had previously dropped hints about her romantic life, sharing an unusual personal preference. "I've often had this thing, when I've been sort of dating someone, I love smelling their armpits," she revealed. "I know it sounds weird, but if you love someone, you've got to love all their smells... there's something about armpit smells that I think are really sexy."
The interview also touched on profound personal loss. Ball was previously in a relationship with cameraman Billy Yates, who died by suicide in May 2017 after battling depression. She has since been a vocal advocate for men's mental health.
"After he died, I was left with lots of questions," she said, noting that his passing gave her a new perspective on life's priorities. Last year, she marked the eighth anniversary of his death with a heartfelt social media tribute.
Ball's confirmation follows her departure from her BBC Radio 2 show in December 2025, a move she initially announced to focus on family and escape the toll of early mornings, compounded by the loss of her mother Julia in April 2024.
