September 21st 2024.
Woody Cook expressed his joy at seeing his mother, Zoe Ball, smile once again. She had been spotted with her ex-husband, Norman Cook, also known as Fatboy Slim, in Hove, and Woody couldn't help but feel relieved to see her happy during these tough times. Zoe, who is the highest-paid female star at the BBC, has been on leave from her popular breakfast show since August 8, causing concern among her fans and listeners.
The recent photos of Zoe and Norman together were the first time she had been seen in public since her unexplained absence. The couple, who separated in 2016, have maintained a close relationship and co-parent their two children, Woody, 23, and Nelly, 14. Both parents have also made positive changes in their lives by choosing to live a sober lifestyle after struggles with alcohol.
In an exclusive statement to MailOnline, Woody opened up about his mother's struggles and how he has been there for her during this challenging time. He stated, "My mum and I like to keep our private lives to ourselves, but I will say that I have been spending a lot more time with her recently. She has always been there for me in tough times, and I'm glad to see her smiling."
Zoe has been off the air for over a month, with Gaby Roslin and Scott Mills filling in for her. This time off follows the loss of her mother, Julia Peckham, who passed away from cancer in April. A source close to Zoe revealed that she has been through a lot in the past few months and her bosses at the BBC have been very supportive of her. They just want her to come back when she is ready.
Before her leave, Zoe had been on holiday in Ibiza and attended Brighton Pride, but she took another break shortly after returning to her radio show. Although there were rumors that she might return this week, sources at Radio 2 have confirmed that nothing is confirmed yet. One insider shared, "Radio 2 is being led by Zoe on this. They are expecting her to return sometime this month, but the decision is ultimately hers."
Zoe's absence has sparked speculation among her audience, with many expressing concern over her silence, particularly on social media. Her last Instagram post was on August 8, where she shared a throwback interview clip. Before that, she had posted pictures of her and her children, reflecting on their fun summer spent in Ibiza and Brighton Pride.
Zoe's departure from her role on Strictly Come Dancing: It Takes Two in May 2021 allowed her to focus more on her radio duties. Her transition to the BBC Radio 2 Breakfast Show in 2019 was a significant career milestone as she became the first woman to host the flagship program, taking over from Chris Evans.
Woody, who is also following in his father's footsteps as an aspiring DJ, revealed earlier this year that he and Zoe were in talks with TV production companies about potentially working on a show together. For now, fans of Zoe will continue to send their well wishes as they eagerly await her return to the airwaves.
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