Big news for morning TV: Sam Champion, the weather anchor for ABC’s “Good Morning America” is leaving his post and heading to The Weather Channel.
Champion will reportedly anchor The Weather Channel’s new flagship morning show, which will air in early 2014. He also becomes the network’s new managing editor. (Via ABC / "GMA")
ABC News President Ben Sherwood sent staffers a note Monday morning announcing the move, adding: "While he is leaving ABC News, he will always be a part of our family. Please join me in thanking Sam for his friendship and countless contributions to our news division."
Champion tweeted after Monday’s show: "Only an amazing opportunity like this at @weatherchannel cld take me away from my @ABC family of 25 yrs and @GMA #blessedlife" (Via Twitter / @SamChampion)
Ironically, Champion will be joining up with morning show rival Al Roker. The “Today” host has his own show on The Weather Channel, “Wake Up With Al.” The Weather Channel is partly owned by NBCUniversal. (Via The Weather Channel)
ABC News has already named Champion’s backup, Ginger Zee, as his replacement on GMA.
So where does this leave GMA? Champion was part of the team that just overtook “Today” as the highest-rated morning show after 16 years on top. CNN’s senior media correspondent Brian Stelter said he’s surprised by the move and thought ABC would find a way to keep the gang together.
“I don’t think any single anchor change at GMA is gonna be a very big deal, but they are gonna have to make sure they bring in Ginger Zee, make her feel welcome and get the viewers comfortable with her.”
Champion will be based at The Weather Channel’s Atlanta headquarters.
