'Countdown' and Out: Why Olbermann Quit MSNBC

Following an abrupt departure from MSNBC Friday, Keith Olbermann has been uncharacteristically soft spoken about his reasons for leaving the "Countdown."

During his final sign-off, MSNBC wished their most popular commentator well in his new endeavors while a brief statement from the company simply noted the “two sides had ended their contract.”

The peaceful peace-out seemed eerily quiet for a show known to stir up controversy and political passion.

Alluding to behind the scenes battles, Yahoo News reports that Olbermann clashed with bosses at MSNBC to the extent of suspension and according to rumor, Olbermann was previously threatened with firing.

Additionally, NBC Universal’s recent merge with Comcast may have played a role in Olbermann’s exit.

TMZ reports that a deal, which wasn’t finalized until right before the Friday show, was made that gave Olberman a way out and eased the growing concerns of network execs, who had felt building pressure from Comcast.  Allegedly, Olbermann had wanted more money, being “underpaid” at $7 million per year, but Comcast wanted Olbermann’s “loose cannon” tendencies controlled – or silenced.

According to their sources, Olbermann must refrain from television for an undisclosed amount of time; however, fans could soon see him reappear on the Internet.

Those awaiting the new chapter in Oldermann's career can chew on his final sign-off and weigh in on what other commentators have to say.

When talking to Rachel Maddow on "HBO's Real TIme with Bill Maher," Maher seemed unamused by the show's recent changes and remarked, "Stop organizing life around the people who don't get the joke."

On the upside, other guests joked, Maddow could get an extra hour for her show.

"I know very little about it. All I know is that it was between Keith and the company and didn't involve any of the rest of us," Maddow said. "And he was really gracious and nice when he left."

Bonus Material:

See Olbermann's final sign-off: