Current TV ousts talk show host Keith Olbermann

[March 31, 2012]  NEW YORK (AP) -- Current TV says it has ejected Keith Olbermann from its talk-show lineup after less than a year.

The network announced late Friday afternoon that "Countdown," the show Olbermann has hosted since last June, was to be replaced with a show hosted by former New York Gov. Eliot Spitzer, beginning Friday night.

"Viewpoint with Eliot Spitzer" will air weeknights at 8 p.m. Eastern time. Spitzer previously had a talk show on CNN.

The sometimes volatile Olbermann came to Current last year as the centerpiece of its new prime-time schedule after a stormy eight-year stint at MSNBC, followed by his abrupt departure.

Current said in a statement that its values of respect, openness and collegiality were no longer reflected in its relationship with Olbermann. It offered no details.

Olbermann was not immediately available for comment.

[Associated Press; By FRAZIER MOORE]

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