SAM CHAMPION To Stay At WABC

(From The New York Post -- By Michael Starr)

The guessing game as to who'll replace departing GOOD MORNING AMERICA (GMA) weatherman TONY PERKINS has already begun -- but you can scratch SAM CHAMPION's name off the list.

Those who know say WABC's lead weathercaster won't be heading over to GMA to replace Perkins. Champion is signed to a long-term deal at ABC-owned WABC -- which pays him handsomely -- and he's an important cog in the station's on-air machinery.

Champion has, on occasion, subbed on GMA (and on LARRY KING LIVE), but a permanent gig on GMA isn't going to happen.