Olbermann to Join Current TV

Former MSNBC host Keith Olbermann announced Tuesday morning that he would join Current TV to host a nightly one-hour show and serve as "chief news officer."

Olbermann unveiled his plan on a conference call with reporters. He also will serve as executive producer of the show, which is set to begin in late spring.

The Huffington Postreports that Olbermann "said that 'nothing is more vital to a free America than a free media,' and called Current 'the model truth seeking entity' in television. He called his new show 'the most exciting event in my career.'"

Gore, the chairman of Current TV, also spoke on the conference call, reports HuffPo. "He said he was 'extremely honored and delighted' that Olbermann was coming to Current. He said Olbermann was a 'great fit with Current in every way.'"

The New York Times reported Monday on the impending move.

"Neither Mr. Olbermann, his representatives, or executives from Current TV would comment on the move, but they did not deny that the channel, which counts former Vice President Al Gore as one of its founders, will become at least one partner in Mr. Olbermann's future media plans," reports the Times.

The liberal Olbermann abruptly left MSNBC, where he was the highest-rated anchor, in January following tensions including his suspension for making political donations to Democratic candidates.

"A move to Current TV would challenge Mr. Olbermann's fans of his MSNBC show -- where he drew about a million viewers a night -- to follow him to a channel that is considerably less accessible," reports the Times. "Current TV is available in only about 60 million homes, and is usually available only on the digital tier of cable television systems, which requires a separate receiver. MSNBC, which is owned by NBC Universal, is available in 85 million homes and is almost always available as a basic cable entry."