Former “Dancing with the Stars” contestant and “Good Morning America” weatherman Sam Champion is opening up about a recent health scare after undergoing emergency heart surgery. The 64-year-old shared the news on Instagram, posting a photo from his hospital bed at Mount Sinai Fuster Heart Hospital in New York City and updating fans on his condition following the unexpected procedure.
Champion explained that the situation unfolded quickly after a routine nuclear stress test revealed an issue that required immediate attention. “Many of you know I had a nuclear stress test last Thursday. And we found some things that needed to be taken care of so today,” he wrote. “I went in to the cardiac catheterization laboratory… and we took care of it. Thanks to these procedures. I am well and expected to make a full recovery.❤️” His update comes as a relief to fans, as he confirmed he is recovering and in good spirits following the procedure, per Page Six.
Support Pours In as Champion Shares Recovery Update
After sharing his health update, Champion received an outpouring of support from fans, friends and colleagues in the comments section of his post. One supporter wrote, “Sam! Our Golden Guy with the heart of GOLD 💛 Glad you got in front of this,” while another added, “So glad you’re OK and you caught it.”
His inner circle also showed up with messages of encouragement. His husband, Rubem Robierb, commented, “I love you, my baby,” while “GMA” co-anchor Robin Roberts wrote, “You know [I’m] here if you need anything at all! Speedy recovery on the way!” “Today” show meteorologist Al Roker also shared his support, writing, “Sam The Man. Glad you are on the mend, my friend.”
Champion later shared a brief follow-up on his Instagram Stories, keeping things light as he continues to recover. “After: a little work then back to normal,” he wrote, signaling a positive outlook as he moves forward.
From Skin Cancer Battle to “Dancing with the Stars” Spotlight
This latest health update comes more than a year after Champion publicly opened up about his battle with skin cancer. In October 2024, he revealed on “GMA” that he had been diagnosed with basal cell carcinoma after noticing a small spot under his eye. The diagnosis led to Mohs surgery at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center to remove the cancer while preserving surrounding tissue, per Good Morning America.
Following the procedure, Champion returned to television with a visible scar and used his platform to raise awareness about early detection. “Be very vigilant… notice any unusual spots, and if those spots start to change, immediately get care,” he said at the time, emphasizing the importance of monitoring skin health.
Beyond his work in broadcast journalism, Champion also stepped into the ballroom as a contestant on Season 31 of “Dancing with the Stars” in 2022. Partnered with Cheryl Burke, he showed steady improvement throughout the competition, including a well-received Viennese waltz during Elvis Night. He was eliminated during Week 4 of the season, placing 13th overall, per 6abc.
As Champion continues his recovery, his message remains consistent when it comes to health awareness: “Be very vigilant.”
Speedy recovery and May the Lord be with you!!!! April & Ray