Zoe Ball, the beloved broadcaster and the first woman to host both the Radio 1 and Radio 2 breakfast shows, has shared the heartbreaking news that her mother, Julia Peckham, passed away after a battle with cancer. Ball had previously revealed that her mother had been diagnosed and, in the wake of the devastating news, she stepped back from her work commitments to devote her time and energy to being by her mother’s side. Presenter Gaby Roslin kindly filled in during her absence, allowing Zoe the space to focus entirely on her family.
When Julia’s diagnosis was first made public, Zoe wrote openly about the difficulty of the moment, sharing how brave her mother had been in facing such a cruel illness. She described how both she and her brother Jamie were deeply touched by the strength of the medical teams caring for their mum. Their gratitude extended not only to the doctors and nurses but also to friends, colleagues, and family who supported them during what she called “extremely tough times.” The outpouring of kindness, she noted, was something they clung to as they navigated the uncertainty of their mother’s condition.
Earlier this week, Zoe posted again, this time on X, to confirm that Julia had sadly lost her battle. Her message was tender and full of love: “We are bereft without you but will hold so tight to each other. Thank you for teaching us how to love unconditionally, to always show courage and empathy, and how, even in the darkest of days, laughter is the greatest of gifts.” The words captured not only her grief but also the lessons her mother passed on, values that will continue to guide her family even in her absence.
In her final days, Julia had been moved into a hospice, where she could be made as comfortable as possible. The move reflected the family’s desire for her to have peace, dignity, and care in her final chapter. For anyone who has walked through the same path of watching a loved one decline, the small details—holding hands at her bedside, recalling happier times, or hearing the sound of her voice—become immeasurably precious.
This loss carries an additional layer of poignancy because of the journey Zoe and her mother had taken to rebuild their relationship. In earlier interviews, Zoe had opened up about their estrangement, describing how she had not seen her mother for more than 14 years after her parents divorced. Raised by her father, the well-known children’s television presenter Johnny Ball, Zoe had little contact with Julia from the time she was five until her late twenties. Their reconnection came later, at Julia’s 40th birthday party, where Zoe bravely decided to attend. That moment marked the beginning of a renewed bond, one that grew stronger over time and clearly meant the world to both of them.
It is clear that the years they had together after reuniting became a source of comfort and joy, both for Zoe and Julia. The knowledge that they were able to heal past wounds and create new memories together brings a bittersweet dimension to the story. While the grief of losing a parent is always profound, the sense of reconciliation adds another layer of meaning—proof of the power of love to mend even long-broken ties.
The news has resonated with many, not only because Zoe Ball is such a familiar face and voice on British radio and television, but also because her story reflects the universal themes of family, forgiveness, and loss. Fans and colleagues alike have reached out to express their condolences, honoring Julia’s courage and Zoe’s openness in sharing such a personal chapter of her life.
As the family now faces the painful days ahead, they do so holding close the values Julia instilled: empathy, bravery, and the ability to find light even in dark moments. To those who admired Zoe from afar, her words are a reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing those we love.
We send our deepest condolences to Zoe, Jamie, and all of Julia’s family and friends. May Julia rest in peace, and may her memory continue to be a source of strength and inspiration. Please share this story with your family and friends on Facebook, as a tribute to the enduring bond between a mother and her children.
