Keith Olbermann leaves MSNBC

LOS ANGELES, Jan. 21 (UPI) -- Keith Olbermann announced on Friday's edition of "Countdown with Keith Olbermann" he is leaving the U.S. cable network MSNBC effective immediately.

The network confirmed his departure but offered no reason for it. The news came two months after the TV commentator was suspended for contributing to Democratic candidates without getting permission from his bosses, which is company policy.

"MSNBC and Keith Olbermann have ended their contract," said a statement issued to The Hollywood Reporter Friday. "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."

Olbermann had been the host of "Countdown" since 2003.