Broadcaster Angela Scanlon has been named as the permanent host of the BBC Radio 2 drivetime programme. She will begin her new role in November, broadcasting every weekday afternoon from four until seven o'clock.
The time slot became available earlier this year after Sara Cox transitioned to the network's breakfast programme. Over the summer months, a rotating group of guest presenters filled the afternoon shift to test out potential successors. Scanlon was among this pool of substitute hosts, alongside other notable television and radio personalities such as Jason Manford, Joel Dommett, and Alex Jones.
Scanlon officially shared the news during an appearance on Cox's morning programme. She expressed enthusiasm about connecting with listeners during the late afternoon hours, noting that the daily broadcast offers a unique opportunity to engage a massive audience during their commutes or evening routines.
Station leadership praised the incoming presenter's natural rapport with listeners. Helen Thomas, the head of Radio 2, highlighted Scanlon's sharp wit and amiable nature, noting that she resonated strongly with the audience during her summer trial run. Thomas emphasized that the afternoon broadcast plays a vital role in helping listeners unwind and transition positively into their evenings.
Scanlon brings extensive broadcasting experience to the network, having previously hosted a weekend early-morning slot on Radio 2 from 2018 until 2021. Her television credits include presenting roles on popular programs such as The One Show and This Morning, as well as a stint as a contestant on Strictly Come Dancing. She also recently spent time hosting weekend breakfast broadcasts on Virgin Radio and co-hosts a weekly podcast.
In addition to the afternoon shake-up, the network revealed a new host for its dedicated country music broadcast. Ben Earle, recognized as one half of the British country duo The Shires, will take over the weekly genre program. He succeeds legendary broadcaster Bob Harris, who announced his departure from the network earlier this year after nearly three decades at the helm of the country show.
Earle brings substantial musical background and broadcasting experience to the position, having spent the past five years presenting a weekly program on Absolute Radio Country. Network executives expressed confidence that his deep appreciation for the genre makes him a fitting successor to carry on the legacy established by Harris, who spent more than half a century broadcasting with the BBC.
Reporting based on coverage first published by BBC News. Read the original report at BBC News.
