Zoe Ball has shared her deep emotions regarding the passing of her former partner Billy Yates in a heartfelt discussion about grief. During the latest Dig It podcast episode, the BBC Radio 2 host was moved to tears while listening to a caller recount the loss of her son.

The caller, named Helen, recounted how, instead of a traditional somber farewell for her son Myles, who succumbed to cancer, they opted for a lively celebration of his life. Helen described hosting an “Ibiza-style” party where his friends paid tribute with DJ performances.

Watching the celebration footage, Zoe expressed her sympathy, acknowledging the loss but also appreciating the beautiful tribute paid to Myles. She remarked on the joy evident in the video, which brought tears to her eyes, emphasizing how touching it was.

Zoe’s own experiences with grief have been profound, having lost Billy to suicide in 2017 and her mother to cancer in 2024. Reflecting on Billy’s passing, she found solace in staying connected with his loved ones, highlighting the importance of maintaining those bonds after a loss.

She spoke warmly about the support she received from Billy’s family and friends, noting how their presence and shared memories provided comfort in the midst of sorrow. Zoe emphasized the lasting impact of forming relationships through shared loss as a source of great solace.

Recalling a poignant memory involving her former mother-in-law, Zoe agreed on the importance of funeral songs that balance sorrow and celebration. She stressed the value of allowing oneself to grieve while also finding moments of joy and laughter, akin to the mix of emotions experienced during Myles’ memorial.

As the emotional episode neared its end, Zoe admitted to her co-host her emotional state, declaring herself a “flipping wreck.” Billy, a cameraman, was Zoe’s first public relationship following her marriage with Norman Cook in 2016.

Last year, she commemorated the eighth anniversary of his passing with a heartfelt Instagram tribute, honoring his memory with the hashtag #mateswithyates. Zoe subsequently had a six-year relationship with model and construction worker Michael Reed before their separation in May 2023.

Currently, she is in a relationship with TV production designer Mathieu Weekes, affectionately known as ‘The Lodger’ on her podcast.