Olbermann WANTED OUT from MSNBC

OK, liberal, but not-too-liberal, folks, since that's where Keith Olbermann himself falls on the political spectrum, let's put the political conspiracy theories on hold.

Per a New York Times media article,t the Keithster and MSNBC had been looking to part ways long before the Comcast takeover.

For the last several weeks, Mr. Olbermann and the network have been in negotiations to end his successful run on MSNBC, according to executives involved in the talks who requested anonymity because the talks were confidential. The deal was completed on Friday, and Mr. Olbermann made the announcement on his final “Countdown” hours later.

Friday’s separation agreement between MSNBC and Mr. Olbermann includes restrictions on when he can next lead a television show and when he can give interviews about the decision to end his association with the news channel.

The executives involved in the discussions confirmed that the deal carries limitations for Mr. Olbermann in terms of when he can next work on television, though he will be able to take a job in radio or on any forum on the Internet. The deal also prohibits the host from commenting publicly on the deal, the executives confirmed.

So, let's stop the political conspiracy theories. More of why?

One executive, who asked not to be identified because Comcast had instructed employees not to speak about the situation, said the company dreaded the prospect of being blamed if Mr. Olbermann were to quit soon after the takeover.

Now, if Rachel Maddow leaves within in the next 12 months, then yes, start them up.

That's not to say the Comcast takeover still isn't fraught with issues.