Keith Olbermann, the left-leaning host of MSNBC’s Countdown With Keith Olbermann has signed off, ending his successful seven year run as the host of his popular news talk show.
MSNBC confirmed Olbermann’s departure before it occurred, telling The Hollywood Reporter:
“MSNBC and Keith Olbermann have ended their contract. The last broadcast of ‘Countdown with Keith Olbermann’ will be this evening. MSNBC thanks Keith for his integral role in MSNBC’s success and we wish him well in his future endeavors.”
You may recall that Olbermann was suspended two months ago amid the realization that he had donated campaign funds to several Democratic candidates without first getting permission from MSNBC. That suspension led to millions of signatures requesting that Olbermann be put back on the air immediately. Olbermann’s suspension lasted just two days.
In place of Olbermann, Lawrence O’Donnell will fill his 8 PM timeslot on Monday. MSNBC is currently seeking a replacement, no doubt another left-leaning host that will match Olbermann’s audience.
Update: TMZ is reporting that Olbermann is receiving a Conan O’Brien type deal, he will be paid what we assume is millions of dollars to stay off the air for “X amount of time.” While he won’t be on TV, it’s believed he will find a new home on the internet for the time being.
