Television Host Charlie Platt Sidelined Following Surgery

The host of a long-running, popular morning television show is recovering following surgery performed last week.

Charlie Platt, who hosts "Top of the Morning" on WDHN, underwent heart bypass surgery but expects to return to the show on which he has appeared for about 20 years.

"Charlie is showing improvement and we're confident he will return to the air in a few weeks," WDHN Vice-President and General Manager Janie B. Hinson said.  "He is an icon on television and Charlie's co-workers join with his many viewers in wishing him a speedy recovery." 

In his absence, multiple hosts will substitute for Platt.  "Obviously, nobody can fill's Charlie's shoes but we are going to do the best we can," said Ms. Hinson.  "We know his devoted viewers will be patient during this time and join with us welcoming Charlie back to work."

Platt began hosting Top of the Morning in the early 1990's and has built faithful following with his down home on-air demeanor and on-set rocking chairs.  "We joke around the station that nobody even thinks about the program being named "Top of the Morning," said Hinson.  "Everybody simply calls it "Charlie."

Platt, in his 50's, is a former disc jockey, having worked at radio stations including WKMX and WOOF-FM.  He also spent years as a wrestling commentator for the Continental Wrestling Alliance. 

People who would like to wish Charlie a speedy recovery and/or send a "get well" card or other correspondence are encouraged to do so.  Those can be mailed to WDHN, P.O. Box 6237, Dothan, AL 36302.  Emails can be sent to charlie@wdhn.com