Zoe Ball's disappearance from Radio 2 update as BBC insider addresses situation

A bizarre update has emerged on Zoe Ball's five-week absence from Radio 2 from a BBC insider.

The iconic presenter, 53, has been notably absent since August 8, forcing Scott Mills and Gaby Roslin to step in. However the BBC has not officially provided an explanation to where Zoe has been. But this week, an insider said “nobody knows what has happened”. They shared: “Nobody knows what has happened but everyone loves Zoe.”

They added to MailOnline: “We hope everything is okay. Zoe is so loved at the BBC so to not have her around is really noticeable.”

READ MORE:Five 'energy hog' appliances will save money on bills if you switch off standby

READ MORE:Police lock down crematorium and cemetery after 'human remains found nearby'

Ball previously took a break from broadcasting earlier this year after the loss of her mother. She also had to get emergency dental surgery following a cancer diagnosis in April, The Mirror reports.

Nevertheless, a number of fans are expressing their frustration over what they perceive as Balls excessive time off. The radio schedule currently displays Scott Mills at the helm for the remainder of the week.

X , formerly Twitter, seen a huge surge of discontent from listeners, with one user venting: "Is this a BBC scandal, complete misuse of licence payers funds. Zoe Ball gets to pick and choose her contract terms and conditions. She never a work, more holidays than you can imagine. Are we mugs paying for this. No comment."

Echoing the sentiment, another chimed in: "Why are the BBC still paying Zoe ball when she is still off air, just get rid of her for someone who does want to work early morning shift. Just saying."

Adding to the chorus, another disconcerted listener commented: "Question why is Zoe Ball never at work, anybody else would be sacked...You pay your licence for this."

A fourth individual had previously expressed their frustration over high salaries at the company, stating: "Not forgetting Zoe Ball BBC radio 2 always on the sick with full pay ! From the licence paying British public!"

However, there was also a wave of concern and support for the presenter, whose reason for absence is yet to be confirmed. After she missed Radio 2 In The Park at the weekend, one user wrote: "Listening and watching all the #R2InThePark content. What has happened to Zoe Ball? She's been off the Radio for 5 weeks in total - no mention of her whatsoever the last few weeks. I hope she's ok."

Another encouraged her to "stay strong" with whatever the issue is. "Zoe, not sure if you read these comments but just to say that I hope you're ok. Take time, stay strong," they said.

A spokesperson for the BBC previously told Mirror: "Zoe will return to the Radio 2 Breakfast Show later this month."

Don't miss the latest news from around Scotland and beyond. Sign up to our daily newsletter.