Sara Cox has successfully steadied and grown the listener base for the BBC Radio 2 Breakfast Show following her takeover of the flagship morning slot. According to the latest RAJAR figures, the new breakfast programme reached 6.4 million weekly listeners during the survey period, representing a 4% year-on-year audience increase for the station’s marquee slot.
The strong performance comes after a turbulent period for the station. Former host Scott Mills was abruptly removed from air and dismissed by the BBC earlier in 2026 following allegations concerning personal conduct. Longtime broadcaster Gary Davies temporarily filled the breakfast vacancy before Cox officially stepped into the role.
Overall, BBC Radio 2 retained its position as the UK’s most listened-to individual radio station, pulling in 12.7 million weekly listeners—a 2% increase on the previous quarter.
Inside the New Radio 2 Breakfast Show
Cox, who previously hosted Radio 2’s drivetime slot, launched her new breakfast format with her signature warmth, humor, and down-to-earth broadcasting style. Joined by her production team and regular contributors, the morning show features interactive listener segments alongside a playlist of pop and classic hits:
Listener-Led Features: Interactive staples include morning call-ins, quickfire quizzes, and lighthearted chat with listeners commuting across the country.
On-Air Team: Cox works alongside a dedicated production team and newsreaders bringing regular national news updates, weather, and travel bulletins throughout the peak morning rush.
Music & Guests: The show blends Radio 2’s classic network playlist with live studio guests, acoustic performances, and celebrity interviews. The Sara Cox Breakfast Show launched in the summer with guest Tom Hanks.
Radio 2’s Heavyweights Lead National Ratings
Beyond the breakfast table, Radio 2’s roster of high-profile presenters continues to command major national audiences:
Vernon Kay: Mid-morning host Vernon Kay continues to broadcast the UK’s most listened-to radio programme, attracting 6.8 million weekly listeners.
Trevor Nelson: Fronting key evening and weekend soul shows, Nelson remains a central figure in the station’s music output.
Rylan Clark & Dermot O’Leary: The duo anchor popular weekend slots, driving strong audience engagement outside peak weekday hours.
Jo Whiley: Serving as the home for new music and live sessions, Whiley’s evening show remains a core pillar of the station’s musical identity.
Listen on BBC Sounds.