Zoe Ball has opened up about the evolving dynamics of her family following her daughter Nelly’s decision to spend more time at the home of her father, former husband Fatboy Slim.
Zoe, the popular BBC Radio 2 presenter, and Norman Cook, the celebrated DJ known as Fatboy Slim, were married in August 1999 in a beautiful ceremony at Babington House in Somerset. Together, they have two children: Woody Cook, 25, and Nelly, 16.
After nearly two decades of marriage, the couple announced their separation in 2016 with a joint statement that read: “With great sadness we are announcing that we have separated. After many exciting adventures together over the last 18 years, we have come to the end of our rainbow. We are still great friends and will continue to support each other and raise our beautiful children together, living next door but one.”
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Since their separation, Zoe and Norman have maintained a close friendship, demonstrating true co-parenting spirit. Zoe is now in a relationship with TV production designer Matt Weekes.
On the latest episode of the “Jo Whiley and Zoe’s Dig It” podcast, released on May 25, Zoe reflected on the quieter atmosphere at her home as her daughter opts to spend more time at her dad’s place.
“My house feels so quiet, like ugh! Nelly is more based at her dad’s now because I think she’s reached that point of wanting to be in one place," Zoe explained. “All of her CSI revision notes are on the wall at her dad’s, and it’s nice not having to shuffle things between two houses. She’s just spending more time there now.”
Zoe added, “It’s great because it’s just around the corner, and I can pop over anytime. And if she ever needs me, like if she’s upset about something, she knows she can come here. But really, it’s happening less and less.”
Their son Woody has recently relocated to Bristol, while both Zoe and Norman remain in Brighton. The family faced added challenges last year with the passing of both Zoe and Norman’s mothers, a loss that has brought them closer.
“Last year, a lot happened that made our family smaller,” Woody shared. “It gave us time to spend more together and reflect. Life is busy, but I live in Bristol while my family is in Brighton. My mum worked in London, so time was limited before. Now, more than ever, it’s about making time because life can be unpredictable."
Woody concluded, “Sometimes I realize my parents need me as much as I need them. I didn’t understand that before, but now we have each other.”