Fred Thompson to fill in for Paul Harvey

Actor and former Senator, Fred Thompson has signed a deal with ABC Radio to substitute for radio legend Paul Harvey whenever Mr. Harvey goes on vacation.

In addition to filling in for Mr. Harvey, Thompson will also host ABC News Radio specials and programs.

Mr. Harvey, who is now 87 years old, has not announced any plans for retirement nor has he indicated who might be his successor if he decides to step aside.

Paul Harvey, Jr., who authors "The Rest of the Story," has filled in for his dad on occasion which led me to believe he would be taking over for his dad. He sounds a lot like Paul Sr., and I think the millions of Paul Harvey listeners would readily accept Paul Jr. in the absence of his dad.

It's going to be a sad day in America when Paul Harvey makes his last noonday broadcast. He's been an American institution my entire life and I'm pushing 54. I literally grew up listening to him.

Sen. Thompson will do a fine job filling in for Paul Harvey, but no one will ever be able to replace him.