Mark Mathis -- whose unpredictable, improvisational weather forecasts on Charlotte's Fox affiliate amused some viewers and infuriated others over the last two years was fired this week by WCCB-TV, two weeks after checking into rehabilitation for alcohol and substance abuse problems.

"They called me here at the hospital and basically said they're `terminating your employment with Fox,' " said Mathis, 38, in a telephone interview Thursday from a Texas rehabilitation facility. "And I said, `Why?'

"Because in the contract, that says you've publicly humiliated the television station by announcing you're going into treatment for alcoholism.

"They cut me loose. No severance, no nothing."

Despite the clowning during some of his performances, Mathis had said he's never been under the influence while on the air, but had fallen into a late-night, after-work partying habit.

Morality clauses are common in contracts in the broadcast industry, particularly those involving on-air talent, the public faces of stations and networks. Such clauses generally cover a variety of possible indiscretions, ranging from behavior at public appearances to legal matters.

"Mark agreed to a contract," said John Hutchinson, vice president and general manager of WCCB (Fox Charlotte, Channel 18), who hired Mathis in 2002 to bring the station a more distinctive, provocative image.

"He knows full well that he failed to fulfill a number of commitments he made to us in that contract. And he also knows that the company has gone the extra mile more than once."

Mathis, who made more than $90,000 a year, said Hutchinson told him Wednesday that he was being fired.

"I harbor no ill feelings whatsoever toward John Hutchinson," Mathis said. "He's the finest boss I have ever had. Period."

Another time he sang the forecast, using a medley of Broadway show tunes, beginning with "It's Too Darn Hot" and ending with "(The Sun'll Come Out) Tomorrow.''