NEW YORK — MSNBC host Keith Olbermann announced Friday that he is leaving the network and has taped his last “Countdown” show. He did not explain why he was leaving. He apologized to fansbut not to the network.
MSNBC issued a statement that it had ended its contract with the controversial host, with no further explanation. Olbermann hosted the network’s most popular show, but his combative liberal opinions often made him a target of critics.
“MSNBC thanks Keith for his integral role in MSNBC’s success and we wish him well in his future endeavors,” the network said. A spokesman said Phil Griffin, MSNBC’s president, would not comment on Olbermann’s exit.
Olbermann was suspended without pay from the network for two days in November for donating to three Democratic candidates, which violated NBC News’ policy on political donations.
The Associated Press
